tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241Mon, 14 Nov 2016 12:44:59 +00003.75-inchMarvel UniverseAction Figure Comics6-inch3.75"DC Universe ClassicsDCUC6"TransformersIron Man 2GI JoeCaptain AmericaStar WarsDC SuperheroesDCSHMOTU ClassicsMasters of the UniverseRise of CobraOptimus PrimeLegoHenkei/ClassicsHulkThorBatmanSupermanAvengersConventionsMarvel LegendsThe AvengersExclusiveIron ManMinifigsRevenge of the FallenContestVintage CollectionWonder WomanTF AnimatedThe First AvengerUltra MagnusConsDukeJustice LeagueStorm ShadowToy HaulGreen LanternJLULegacy CollectionPowered CommanderPursuit of CobraSecret WarsSingapore Toy Game and Comic ConventionSpidermanThe Mighty AvengerThingUltimatesWolverineBlack WidowFlashHawkeyeIndiana JonesKing HulkKingdomsLex LuthorMarvel SelectNeo-ViperSTGCCSabertoothSnake EyesSupergirlUltimate Captain AmericaWar Machine3-pack3.754-packBaneBatman BeyondBattle CatBench PressBizarroBlackest NightBumblebeeChitauriChristianClayfaceCrimson DynamoCyclopsDC DirectDarkseidElseworldsFace Off HulkFather's DayFin Fang FoomHal JordanHawkgirlHe-ManHulkbuster ArmorIron Man Mark VIron Man Mark VIIron MongerKeldorKiller MothKre-OLokiLuke SkywalkerMighty MuggsNeo-Viper OfficerNick FuryRed SonRipcordRobinSideswipeSidewaysSilver CenturionSilver SurferSnow SerpentStar SapphireTF UniverseToy DisplaysTwo FaceUltra HumaniteWhiplash2.05-Pack5-inchAbin SurAbominationAbsorbing ManAerobics InstructorAgent HelixAnt ManArchangelArctic AssaultArkham CityArtemisAssault ArmourAttack on th PitAvatarAvenging CycleBackgroundsBariss OffeeBaron ZemoBaronessBastila ShanBatle Hammer ThorBattle Armor He-ManBazookaBeachheadBeta Ray BillBillyBlack HandBlastaarBlobBlueBlue LanternBlue-skinnedBoba FettBoxerBrainiacBreakerCaptain AtomCaptain BritainCaptain MarvelCarol FerrisCatwomanCave WomanChristmasCity CommanderClassic ArmorClassic HulkCliff JumperClownCollect N ConnectCollectorColonel VogelColossusCombat HeroesComic SeriesCommissioner GordonCovergirlCustomsCybertron Con 2012CyclonusDC Movie MastersDaredevilDarth VaderDefensorDetectiveDoctor StrangeDr. DoomDwarfEgyptian QueenElfElite-ViperEnchantressEternian GuardsEternian Palace GuardsEtriganFakerFall of CybertronFantastic FourFireblast DestroyerFirst Appreance ArmorFrankensteinFury of CombatGalvatronGamma Smash HulkGangsterGeishaGhost RiderGladiatorGoliath Assault TankGraduateGrail KnightGround Assault DroneGuardsmanH.E.R.B.I.E.Hammer DroneHammer Smash ThorHan SoloHawkHeavy DutyHeimdallHolographic ArmorHot RodHot SpotHot ToysHulkbuster ArmourHuman TorchHyper Velocity ArmorIce FishermanInvisible WomanIron Man Mark IIron Man Mark IIIron Man Mark IIIIvan VankoJean GreyJokerJubileeJuggernautKalibakKilowogKimono GirlKing GrayskullKnightsKnights of the Old RepublicKyle RaynerLando CalrissianLee Byung-HunLegends ClassLieutenant GordonLizard ManLumberjackM.A.R.S. OfficerM.A.R.S. TrooperMagnetoMan-At-ArmsMan-BatMantisMartian ManhunterMasters of EvilMedphyllMetroplexMini MuggsMongulMovie MastersMr. FantasticMr. FreezeMystiqueNa'viNaut Kei LoiNemesis PrimeNightcrawlerObi-Wan KenobiOrkoParasitePit Mobile HQPit TrooperPower GirlPredatorPrince AdamProfessor XPrototype SuitProving Ground 3-PackPublc EnemiesQui-Gon JinnR2-D2Radioactive ManRatchetRecondoRedRed HulkRed SkullReveal the ShieldRick GrimesRiddlerRobot HeroesRodimusRolllbarRoyal GuardS.H.I.E.L.D.STCCScarlett JohansenScenerySecret StrikeSeries 5Shadow TrackerSharkShazamShockwaveSilver SavageSinestroSkaarSkeletorSkywarpSnarler CycleSnowboarderSpartanSpirit Iron KnifeSteve RogersStormtroopersStreet FighterSunstormSuperheroesThanosThe Amazing SpidermanThe LizardThe MonsterTiger SharkTitanium ManTop 10 ListsTrailerUS AgentUltimate Gift SetUltimate Iron ManUltimate MagnetoUltimate ThorVenomVibranium ArmorVoyager ClassWalking DeadWaspWave 1Wave 2WerewolfWicketWolfmanWorld War HulkX-MenZartanZatannaZookeeperChase Varianthttp://chasevariant.blogspot.com/noreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)Blogger272125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-7958867934171472815Tue, 15 Oct 2013 18:05:00 +00002013-10-16T02:08:19.338+08:00AvengersConsConventionsHot ToysIron ManMetroplexSingapore Toy Game and Comic ConventionStar WarsSTGCCToy DisplaysTransformersSingapore Toys Games and Comics Convention 2013 (STGCC 2013)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r8BIEDs8b7k/Ul1SoOcF9QI/AAAAAAAAJjo/aNlsmZIa8XY/s1600/2013-09-01+13.49.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r8BIEDs8b7k/Ul1SoOcF9QI/AAAAAAAAJjo/aNlsmZIa8XY/s320/2013-09-01+13.49.52.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">5 month-old Man of Steel (comes with Mom)</td></tr></tbody></table>This year's STGCC a month ago was a big surprise for me, really--I just wasn't expecting that many people to show up! Lots of people dressed up too--I could hardly turn here nor there without a glimpse of a superhero, a cosplayer, or a Stormtrooper.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WJxo2WHsdkk/Ul1TLs7iTZI/AAAAAAAAJmU/BCga26TsLBs/s1600/2013-09-01+14.23.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WJxo2WHsdkk/Ul1TLs7iTZI/AAAAAAAAJmU/BCga26TsLBs/s320/2013-09-01+14.23.22.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hot Toys Man of Steel (Mom not included)</td></tr></tbody></table>Also, I have been rather out of the loop about new toy releases. Sure, I've kept up with the usual Hasbro Marvel Universe and Star Wars offerings, and even the occasional DC and Masters of the Universe piece of news, but Hot Toys, Play Imaginative (Super Alloy series) and some of the local stores threw me for a curve--and it was a good thing.<br /><br />So just how impressive were they? &nbsp;Let's see!<br /><br /><br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><b><span style="color: #274e13;">The Highlights:</span></b><br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yoUmk_wrIHg/Ul1SQWjIeqI/AAAAAAAAJi8/om5zrwyHTrw/s1600/2013-09-01+13.36.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yoUmk_wrIHg/Ul1SQWjIeqI/AAAAAAAAJi8/om5zrwyHTrw/s320/2013-09-01+13.36.06.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mmm...Look how chrome-y my thighs are!</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: #274e13;">STGCC convention Exclusive Metroplex!!!</span></b> (By The Falcon's Hanger) -- This thing was a whopping S$260. &nbsp;The differences between this and the retail version (S$169.90): The extra laser gun, the chromes parts (thighs, face) and the 12 "minifigs", which I found kinda not enticing. &nbsp;They didn't transform and were one color solid plastic TFs about 2-inches tall. &nbsp;Also, the Con exclusive box opens up like this. (Left)<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xGFwZ3d5vDE/Ul1SSoZYLWI/AAAAAAAAJjE/zKUkSprHHVk/s1600/2013-09-01+13.36.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xGFwZ3d5vDE/Ul1SSoZYLWI/AAAAAAAAJjE/zKUkSprHHVk/s320/2013-09-01+13.36.27.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />I'm glad a store like FH does this--they do a Con exclusive every year--it makes for something to look forward to and something to look at in a small-ish con (compared to the likes of SDCC and NYCC) like this. &nbsp;I didn't pick this up, but I did find a retail version a week later for 20% off (S$136), which my wife then snagged for me as an anniversary present. ;) &nbsp;Thanks, dear darling wife! ;)<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #274e13;">The 5" Iron Man series (by Play Imaginative)</span></b><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jnju7tRoZUc/Ul1S73wiehI/AAAAAAAAJlA/nLDRbN9EpHk/s1600/2013-09-01+15.28.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jnju7tRoZUc/Ul1S73wiehI/AAAAAAAAJlA/nLDRbN9EpHk/s320/2013-09-01+15.28.32.jpg" width="320" /></a>These were seriously awesome to behold as there were maybe more than a hundred figures all on display in their own little glass compartments of an extended display case. &nbsp;Looking really metallic and with great paint and lots of accessories, I don't think they'll come cheap but will be very popular, I'm sure.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SUlA13wcuGI/Ul1S8RuncxI/AAAAAAAAJlE/CExM1zQVwZw/s1600/2013-09-01+15.28.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SUlA13wcuGI/Ul1S8RuncxI/AAAAAAAAJlE/CExM1zQVwZw/s200/2013-09-01+15.28.39.jpg" width="200" /></a>Play Imaginative also does the 12" Super Alloys line, but I like those a bit less because they figures look a little (and this is just a little) more disjointed at the, well, joints. &nbsp;They don't look as clean as Hot Toys--but then, what 12" figures do, right? ;)<br /><br />These 5" Iron Man figures, though, look super stunning. &nbsp;And I think if you're thinking of starting a Hall of Armor collection that isn't 12 inches tall, this would be it.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TkEdwfTqeNA/Ul1S5a96aeI/AAAAAAAAJks/kEGaD4ZH1Jw/s1600/2013-09-01+15.27.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TkEdwfTqeNA/Ul1S5a96aeI/AAAAAAAAJks/kEGaD4ZH1Jw/s640/2013-09-01+15.27.28.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view from the back of the extended display case--cuz there were so many people, I couldn't a wide shot from the front!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b><span style="color: #274e13;">The dress-ups</span></b> -- This year's was the most numerous and probably the best I've seen in the four years of STGCC:<br /><div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v0OqiiFlsCI/Ul1SroRy2uI/AAAAAAAAJj0/Yx_jsS3xgcg/s1600/2013-09-01+14.17.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v0OqiiFlsCI/Ul1SroRy2uI/AAAAAAAAJj0/Yx_jsS3xgcg/s200/2013-09-01+14.17.23.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wJtUaw3jv5I/Ul1S0o0mMxI/AAAAAAAAJkY/nTeYUY57_kw/s1600/2013-09-01+14.47.53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wJtUaw3jv5I/Ul1S0o0mMxI/AAAAAAAAJkY/nTeYUY57_kw/s200/2013-09-01+14.47.53.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TAAJXCKH6j4/Ul1ShvuBD_I/AAAAAAAAJjg/pVRxJydtvvA/s1600/2013-09-01+13.40.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TAAJXCKH6j4/Ul1ShvuBD_I/AAAAAAAAJjg/pVRxJydtvvA/s200/2013-09-01+13.40.12.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><br /><br />My two boys also dressed up, one little one as Supes and older on one as Cap (he put on the mask for all of 6 seconds, then decided it would interfere with his vision while scurrying around).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cuhjeuVJQFk/Ul1ShwihiPI/AAAAAAAAJjY/6XTmZElckeo/s1600/2013-09-01+13.48.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cuhjeuVJQFk/Ul1ShwihiPI/AAAAAAAAJjY/6XTmZElckeo/s320/2013-09-01+13.48.26.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sFAKvjr06qw/Ul1Si_tnQKI/AAAAAAAAJjk/8Nt0HMW0V20/s1600/2013-09-01+13.49.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sFAKvjr06qw/Ul1Si_tnQKI/AAAAAAAAJjk/8Nt0HMW0V20/s320/2013-09-01+13.49.13.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Or should I say the little one was Super-stoked and the older boy was Captain Puckered-Out. :P<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gGuO_s5HRCI/Ul1S2a9ZXSI/AAAAAAAAJkk/XQiZtt7dvfI/s1600/2013-09-01+15.10.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gGuO_s5HRCI/Ul1S2a9ZXSI/AAAAAAAAJkk/XQiZtt7dvfI/s640/2013-09-01+15.10.37.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I just loved this Batman!</td></tr></tbody></table>We also loved the 501st,and the DC superheroes dress-ups. &nbsp;And we were only at the Con for perhaps 3 hours on Day 2! &nbsp;I really wanted to spend more time there. &nbsp;Pity, I'm going to have to wait till next year. &nbsp;Glad the organizers are listening and are constantly trying to improve the event. &nbsp;It was fun for the whole family!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hcith68kcaI/Ul1SwKLUBgI/AAAAAAAAJkE/nYIlvJlOhOM/s1600/2013-09-01+14.39.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hcith68kcaI/Ul1SwKLUBgI/AAAAAAAAJkE/nYIlvJlOhOM/s200/2013-09-01+14.39.24.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HCDu3QsJJ0o/Ul1YcGhfkzI/AAAAAAAAJoM/E8isA2q7N_4/s1600/2013-09-01+14.42.34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HCDu3QsJJ0o/Ul1YcGhfkzI/AAAAAAAAJoM/E8isA2q7N_4/s200/2013-09-01+14.42.34.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F5DLTOk6SDs/Ul1SxHFs2HI/AAAAAAAAJkM/af_xbYlsuUI/s1600/2013-09-01+14.39.53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F5DLTOk6SDs/Ul1SxHFs2HI/AAAAAAAAJkM/af_xbYlsuUI/s200/2013-09-01+14.39.53.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />The Hot Toys display--It just keep getting bigger and better every year! &nbsp;They could just sit on the fact that they have so many characters across different brands now and just cram 'em all in a display. &nbsp;Instead, they keep raising the quality of their displays:<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GYZJaLPqfwk/Ul1THWI7JmI/AAAAAAAAJl8/yASgCZN8dNg/s1600/2013-09-01+14.21.49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GYZJaLPqfwk/Ul1THWI7JmI/AAAAAAAAJl8/yASgCZN8dNg/s640/2013-09-01+14.21.49.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So life-like--it's just like you were right there...</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cu_JjN-uhn8/Ul1TEK8ik-I/AAAAAAAAJlg/FcV7xmPXafg/s1600/2013-09-01+14.19.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cu_JjN-uhn8/Ul1TEK8ik-I/AAAAAAAAJlg/FcV7xmPXafg/s200/2013-09-01+14.19.22.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ondlE5aQqYk/Ul1TEia0QvI/AAAAAAAAJlk/ZuzBhSULm-c/s1600/2013-09-01+14.19.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ondlE5aQqYk/Ul1TEia0QvI/AAAAAAAAJlk/ZuzBhSULm-c/s200/2013-09-01+14.19.42.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dzk8OVQ8ing/Ul1TGJG0spI/AAAAAAAAJls/BBg40lUIbzk/s1600/2013-09-01+14.20.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dzk8OVQ8ing/Ul1TGJG0spI/AAAAAAAAJls/BBg40lUIbzk/s200/2013-09-01+14.20.28.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wuhfFRhqehk/Ul1TpInUBPI/AAAAAAAAJnM/W33xEHM4gVg/s1600/2013-09-01+15.04.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wuhfFRhqehk/Ul1TpInUBPI/AAAAAAAAJnM/W33xEHM4gVg/s200/2013-09-01+15.04.16.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K9pEULUUCx0/Ul1TL490pQI/AAAAAAAAJmQ/u8bi7V3S004/s1600/2013-09-01+14.24.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K9pEULUUCx0/Ul1TL490pQI/AAAAAAAAJmQ/u8bi7V3S004/s200/2013-09-01+14.24.11.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9mB5TMEn9MY/Ul1TKflAZOI/AAAAAAAAJmE/K_Chvm43Vqk/s1600/2013-09-01+14.23.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9mB5TMEn9MY/Ul1TKflAZOI/AAAAAAAAJmE/K_Chvm43Vqk/s200/2013-09-01+14.23.01.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;">And of course, everyone was just Iron Manning the heck out of everything! ;P</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HoD80f9laJA/Ul1TmvDIIkI/AAAAAAAAJnE/_CCUjHze9xg/s1600/2013-09-01+14.38.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HoD80f9laJA/Ul1TmvDIIkI/AAAAAAAAJnE/_CCUjHze9xg/s640/2013-09-01+14.38.37.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A life-size Hall of Armor!</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"></span></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ygK2LBBXOkY/Ul1TlXLjNeI/AAAAAAAAJm8/wbwCIGu0LgU/s1600/2013-09-01+14.36.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="483" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ygK2LBBXOkY/Ul1TlXLjNeI/AAAAAAAAJm8/wbwCIGu0LgU/s640/2013-09-01+14.36.21.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Action City's Hot Toys 12" Hall of Armor</td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kNwmL2rWylU/Ul1TiNByfEI/AAAAAAAAJm0/HzwkKkCaPjg/s1600/2013-09-01+14.31.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kNwmL2rWylU/Ul1TiNByfEI/AAAAAAAAJm0/HzwkKkCaPjg/s640/2013-09-01+14.31.52.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hot Toys own 12" Hall of Armor--literally worth thousands of dollars</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><b><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="color: red;">The Low-lights</span></b><br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hT1q70SY90g/Ul1TzyVIUtI/AAAAAAAAJn8/KbtZmpm9Mek/s1600/2013-09-01+15.21.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hT1q70SY90g/Ul1TzyVIUtI/AAAAAAAAJn8/KbtZmpm9Mek/s320/2013-09-01+15.21.52.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not an Exclusive, just Jack Sparrow hitching a ride</td></tr></tbody></table>I still feel STGCC needs more Con exclusives, at least on the cheaper action figure side of things. &nbsp;Marvel Universe Greyscale Cap-on-Ice was the perfect example in 2009 (Out of Toys R Us), but whne TRU pulled out the following year, no one else had a similar sort of offering.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-afVsMSbU9kc/Ul1TBTSDUYI/AAAAAAAAJlM/2gsOx4knr7w/s1600/2013-09-01+13.25.49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-afVsMSbU9kc/Ul1TBTSDUYI/AAAAAAAAJlM/2gsOx4knr7w/s200/2013-09-01+13.25.49.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who? I have no idea too...</td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y_NceSPe5x4/Ul1TCmsLeKI/AAAAAAAAJlU/ladsBQ6MPr4/s1600/2013-09-01+13.19.49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y_NceSPe5x4/Ul1TCmsLeKI/AAAAAAAAJlU/ladsBQ6MPr4/s200/2013-09-01+13.19.49.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pikachu sellin' it</td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-spje-vTH_fA/Ul1T1uTLWUI/AAAAAAAAJoE/s9uaNWhDRnE/s1600/2013-09-01+14.34.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-spje-vTH_fA/Ul1T1uTLWUI/AAAAAAAAJoE/s9uaNWhDRnE/s320/2013-09-01+14.34.46.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ronald McDonald in Mk 42 Armor</td></tr></tbody></table>I also maintain that the Con can bigger on non-computer gaming! &nbsp;Board games, card games, miniatures games, miniature war games--the event can really capitalize on its name and get major gaming brands on board for demos, tourneys, and even fun group or walk-in tourneys for families. &nbsp;This would be really be fun and separate the Con from, say, a Sunday trip to China Square Central (The local place with the concentration of toy speciality stores)!<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kaMPqBCmUkg/Ul1TfBZJbAI/AAAAAAAAJmk/iOtqX0aEY_A/s1600/2013-09-01+14.27.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kaMPqBCmUkg/Ul1TfBZJbAI/AAAAAAAAJmk/iOtqX0aEY_A/s200/2013-09-01+14.27.01.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Movie Masters scale "Bat"</td></tr></tbody></table>And finally, though I know Marina Bay Sands is a very up-market place to hold events, the parking there is way too expensive. &nbsp;S$6 for the 1st hour and S$1 for every subsequent 30 minutes is way too much. Bleargh.<br /><br />Overall, I'm looking forward to next year. &nbsp;Hopefully, I won;t be as out of touch as I was this time but will be just as surprised by STGCC '13.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EL--e46M_G0/Ul1TyI0BW6I/AAAAAAAAJn0/H8acoDDlh-c/s1600/2013-09-01+14.47.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EL--e46M_G0/Ul1TyI0BW6I/AAAAAAAAJn0/H8acoDDlh-c/s640/2013-09-01+14.47.14.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Massive 3.75" scale Star Wars Endor display!</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dCsrQL44RzQ/Ul1TqzIqjCI/AAAAAAAAJnU/avtgiSxJWSI/s1600/2013-09-01+14.44.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dCsrQL44RzQ/Ul1TqzIqjCI/AAAAAAAAJnU/avtgiSxJWSI/s200/2013-09-01+14.44.04.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9xz1yYCx2_A/Ul1TsoE3SNI/AAAAAAAAJng/sEQPdlp53EQ/s1600/2013-09-01+14.44.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9xz1yYCx2_A/Ul1TsoE3SNI/AAAAAAAAJng/sEQPdlp53EQ/s200/2013-09-01+14.44.44.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zqe5vIzFWrQ/Ul1TsyQN34I/AAAAAAAAJnk/ys1ehRVvPvk/s1600/2013-09-01+14.45.09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zqe5vIzFWrQ/Ul1TsyQN34I/AAAAAAAAJnk/ys1ehRVvPvk/s200/2013-09-01+14.45.09.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mcIrUwja7Ok/Ul1TwEAn3KI/AAAAAAAAJns/asFDs1zibG8/s1600/2013-09-01+14.45.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mcIrUwja7Ok/Ul1TwEAn3KI/AAAAAAAAJns/asFDs1zibG8/s200/2013-09-01+14.45.43.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div><br /></div>http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2013/10/singapore-toys-games-and-comics.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-1720718497427690709Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:22:00 +00002012-12-15T00:22:53.376+08:005-inchComic SeriesRick GrimesWalking DeadWalking Dead: 5" Comic Series Officer Rick Grimes (Series 1)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oTBFwd69MKs/UMtFETk04ZI/AAAAAAAAJaw/2GHglRt2yJQ/s1600/P1000208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oTBFwd69MKs/UMtFETk04ZI/AAAAAAAAJaw/2GHglRt2yJQ/s320/P1000208.JPG" width="208" /></a></div>Otherwise known as "The Man" in the TV version of the Walking Dead, Rick Grimes is the everyday sort of guy who starts out as an average Joe but is forced by circumstances to become a survivor, a leader and eventually, a hero. &nbsp;He's the sort of guy you can relate to, a person we can all see ourselves becoming because he's got very human weaknesses and strengths. &nbsp;In other words, he's the perfect sort of guy to be the centre of a zombie apocalypse story.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wTx5D2lXjMY/UMtFnuwlrhI/AAAAAAAAJbc/V0Z7tyJfOfA/s1600/P1000213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wTx5D2lXjMY/UMtFnuwlrhI/AAAAAAAAJbc/V0Z7tyJfOfA/s320/P1000213.JPG" width="157" /></a>In toy terms, that means if you have a zombie action figure collection and need a dude to complete a display, Rick Grimes is your man. &nbsp;This also means that if you have friends over, they'll easily recognize Rick in all his bloody glory because who hasn't seen the Walking Dead, right? &nbsp;well, that's the irony--the TV version of Rick is not the one I'd recommend: poor articulation, a fixed pose&nbsp;(think NECA's Harry Potter range in terms of these two things),&nbsp;a not-so-accurate likeness and average paint render him more of a staction figure. &nbsp;It would also be so easy to cast this Comic Series version in the same light because of the bad rap of the movie figure.<br /><br />Well, I'm here to say that's entirely untrue!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r3zyPAy1xhQ/UMtGy-EEOSI/AAAAAAAAJc8/SHs1r4IVyDU/s1600/P1000248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r3zyPAy1xhQ/UMtGy-EEOSI/AAAAAAAAJc8/SHs1r4IVyDU/s320/P1000248.JPG" width="284" /></a></div>I've not read the graphic novels, but my wife has and she's rarely reads stuff unless it's worth it. &nbsp;We bought the<b> </b>super-fat 1st compendium that contains the first eight&nbsp;books and let's just say she devoured it like a Walker on fresh human flesh. &nbsp;I've yet to get to it, though it's on my to-do list, and it remains one of the few properties my wife actually knows more than me about. &nbsp;So yeah, when it comes to zombie knowledge, I am the suck compared to wifey...for now, Dear, for now. ;P<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nS8f8PStK_Y/UMtFuK4NDqI/AAAAAAAAJbk/0CaZ2TlBYcA/s1600/P1000214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nS8f8PStK_Y/UMtFuK4NDqI/AAAAAAAAJbk/0CaZ2TlBYcA/s320/P1000214.JPG" width="167" /></a>So what do I know about comic series Rick Grimes? &nbsp;Not much. &nbsp;I do know I love the on-screen Rick, though there's no doubt he's probably a slightly different character from the books. &nbsp;In terms of this action figure though, he's probably similar enough at this point of the story. &nbsp;It's do-or-die time, grab-a bag-of-guns-and-get-into-the-big-city-looking-for-other-survivors moment. &nbsp;I'm sure it happens in the graphic novels, just like it happened in Season 1 of the TV series.<br /><br />And here's rick Grimes, with that famous bag of guns!<br /><br />(Oh, and sorry for the lack of <a href="http://walkingdead.wikia.com/wiki/File:The_Walking_Dead_Comic_Series_1_5-inch_Action_Figure_-_Officer_Rick_Grimes_box.jpg" target="_blank">package pics</a>. &nbsp;I'm sure I took one before I ripped the guy open. &nbsp;But I can't seem to find it! &nbsp;Lol.)<br /><a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1dalzRDxqEE/UMtFL-jZmiI/AAAAAAAAJa4/tl0Cy-MUQK0/s1600/P1000210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1dalzRDxqEE/UMtFL-jZmiI/AAAAAAAAJa4/tl0Cy-MUQK0/s320/P1000210.JPG" width="241" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like: </span></b>The detailed sculpt and paint. ...Rick's eyes are painted slightly to the left, turning what would be a blank expression into a sly/suspicious/wary one.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FTccGkNoOJI/UMtGWIZZQTI/AAAAAAAAJcc/_lmgMCE1kXI/s1600/P1000224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FTccGkNoOJI/UMtGWIZZQTI/AAAAAAAAJcc/_lmgMCE1kXI/s200/P1000224.JPG" width="200" /></a>Though the 5" scale is strange, McFarlane has embraced it and made it work. &nbsp;It makes other regular action figures of the more common 6" and 3.75" scale incompatible though. &nbsp;The upside is that the sculpts are large enough to hold a great amount of detail but not so large that stuff tends to get unpainted. &nbsp;Also, it means that figures are not too small that paint gets sloppy as in some 3.75" cases.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xC-kLdoJEYc/UMtFhV-ti7I/AAAAAAAAJbU/IjOe3ADv4gY/s1600/P1000205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xC-kLdoJEYc/UMtFhV-ti7I/AAAAAAAAJbU/IjOe3ADv4gY/s320/P1000205.JPG" width="280" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> One of the first things I tend to take notice of is a figure's points of articulation. &nbsp;Well, Rick here has plenty (24 on my count), all of which are well hidden and tend to surprise you because of how well the sculpt hides them.&nbsp; The highlights include: A great ball-jointed head, swivel/hinge (ratcheted)/swivel wrists (that's right, a 3-in-1 wrist joint!), swivel legs and ball-thighs combo, and ball-ankles.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JQbcKGveeVY/UMtF9LArjqI/AAAAAAAAJb0/9Kq5fhh31s8/s1600/P1000215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JQbcKGveeVY/UMtF9LArjqI/AAAAAAAAJb0/9Kq5fhh31s8/s320/P1000215.JPG" width="240" /></a>Something about the ratcheted hinges in his shoulders and wrists give this figure and added feel of tightness.&nbsp; It feels like these hinges are so secure they'll never become loose!<b> </b><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AR6dMU9rE5Q/UMtF0NMteqI/AAAAAAAAJbs/jLSnl3Pu0hg/s1600/P1000211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AR6dMU9rE5Q/UMtF0NMteqI/AAAAAAAAJbs/jLSnl3Pu0hg/s200/P1000211.JPG" width="177" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The remarkable range of motion from his points of articulation, especially since they are so well hidden. &nbsp;You get a full range of motion from his head, great range from his wrists (they're just far out enough that his sleeves don't obstruct the hinge.), and<b> </b>the swivel waist that you can't even tell is there but allows Rick 360-degree rotation.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_GCoNFR0bE8/UMtFZ_9UL-I/AAAAAAAAJbM/tJroV7p8uaE/s1600/P1000204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_GCoNFR0bE8/UMtFZ_9UL-I/AAAAAAAAJbM/tJroV7p8uaE/s320/P1000204.JPG" width="307" /></a><br /><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> Super loose ankles--the left one on mine falls off quite easily. (Yet somehow he can still balance on it!) &nbsp;The head is not as loose but can also come off easily when moved around to much. &nbsp;It seems like the joints that are loose on this figure are the ball joints. &nbsp;Some super glue-trick treatment is definitely in order.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mPeUiJspKs8/UMtG4qQtnlI/AAAAAAAAJdE/O4-s833O92k/s1600/P1000250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="130" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mPeUiJspKs8/UMtG4qQtnlI/AAAAAAAAJdE/O4-s833O92k/s200/P1000250.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Tons of guns! &nbsp;Well, five<b>&nbsp;</b>in total, actually.<b>&nbsp; </b>He's got his handgun, a long rifle, and 3 shotguns of various lengths. &nbsp;Yes, my knowledge of guns is the best, as you can tell. &nbsp;Haha.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rick's also got a carry bag to put his arsenal in--but the bag is also an important part of the plot, at least in the TV series it is, so this means something that he come with it. &nbsp;I don't know if the bag means the same thing in the graphic novels, but I'm happy that I can relate just having seen the TV version. &nbsp;As if all that stuff ain't enough, he also come with a hatchet just for those times he runs out of ammo. ;)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DBQAtKBNXLU/UMtGFg1MHGI/AAAAAAAAJb8/gXHgRMq1Img/s1600/P1000216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DBQAtKBNXLU/UMtGFg1MHGI/AAAAAAAAJb8/gXHgRMq1Img/s320/P1000216.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b>&nbsp;His gun belt, which has a holster for his gun, a leather loop for his hatchet, and a couple of pouches--he can carry all his gear and still be kickin' some zombie-ass!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V7EITV7Zomc/UMtFSZy5uFI/AAAAAAAAJbE/yqT1BgXZ_I8/s1600/P1000268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V7EITV7Zomc/UMtFSZy5uFI/AAAAAAAAJbE/yqT1BgXZ_I8/s320/P1000268.JPG" width="188" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> No chest pivot. &nbsp;And I think this is something McFarlane won't do if it disrupts the torso sculpt. &nbsp;His hat is also not removable--but I'd rather have this than have it be loose and fall off all the time and/or have Rick look weird when he doesn't have his hat on.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HR4P3jQJJTA/UMtGdDbueoI/AAAAAAAAJck/D5nMFogXRDQ/s1600/P1000226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HR4P3jQJJTA/UMtGdDbueoI/AAAAAAAAJck/D5nMFogXRDQ/s320/P1000226.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> And this is only because he can move out of it--his neutral "weight-on-one-leg" pose.&nbsp; So far, all of the McFarlane Walking Dead figures have some sort of fixed neutral pose.&nbsp; Some have the articulation to get out of it, some don't.&nbsp; Case in point is the movie Rick Grimes and the movie Daryl Dixon, who has proven to be a hot favourite despite this inflexibility and his short-looking right arm.<br /><br />No such problems for comic Rick, as you can see! :)<br /><br /><u><b>RATINGS</b></u><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hBovcT3a1ZQ/UMtGMWJ3-AI/AAAAAAAAJcE/aHeA8yYG2L0/s1600/P1000218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hBovcT3a1ZQ/UMtGMWJ3-AI/AAAAAAAAJcE/aHeA8yYG2L0/s320/P1000218.JPG" width="187" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Aesthetics: 9.5/10 </span></b>- The great paint apps were the first thing I noticed<b>--</b>there seems to be at least 2 different shades of colour for&nbsp;his uniform, his duffel, and his skin.<b> &nbsp;</b>His face is what makes him awesome, though. &nbsp;Sure, he looks nothing like in the TV series, but the ruddiness, the 5 o'clock shadow, and the cool blue eyes.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xOTeZ-TRaSE/UMtGlu366-I/AAAAAAAAJcs/cMdoam0U0sg/s1600/P1000227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xOTeZ-TRaSE/UMtGlu366-I/AAAAAAAAJcs/cMdoam0U0sg/s320/P1000227.JPG" width="240" /></a>What I especially like is that his eyes aren't painted staring straight ahead but slight looking to his left. &nbsp;It's a deliberate attempt to make him look a little wary and it works! &nbsp;It also works well tilt his head this way or that to create that "cop stare." &nbsp;And of course, it's great when you have him holding out a gun in his left hand--it looks really, well, real!<br /><br />All this before I mention his highly detailed sculpt--MrFarlane's got clothes down pat. &nbsp;The folds, wrinkles, the way the "cloth" hangs off his frame. &nbsp;Even when you open up the flaps of his jacket, his torso doesn't look like it was made thinner to accommodate the outer jacket layer, unlike a certain other &nbsp;company that re-uses a particular buck for every character in a suit. <i>*cough* *Mattel* *cough* *Dark Knight Rises/DCUC* *cough*...</i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zWqkiOkg8qA/UMtGse8MAAI/AAAAAAAAJc0/2Ki8syFl7pI/s1600/P1000229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zWqkiOkg8qA/UMtGse8MAAI/AAAAAAAAJc0/2Ki8syFl7pI/s320/P1000229.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sAbSLKqAloc/UMtG-iCjcPI/AAAAAAAAJdM/HVs_iFOU7c0/s1600/P1000251.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sAbSLKqAloc/UMtG-iCjcPI/AAAAAAAAJdM/HVs_iFOU7c0/s200/P1000251.JPG" width="177" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Poseability: 8/10</span></b> - Rick's right leg is shorter than his left and it's done this way just for that weight-on-one-leg neutral pose. &nbsp;I know some people really hate this, but I'm ok with it as long as it doesn't take away from what other poses he can achieve. &nbsp;I must say, Rick here doesn't have a problem with being flexible. &nbsp;He can pull off other looks easily and still look good doing 'em.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VBnlpYk3IIA/UMtH4yLI8mI/AAAAAAAAJeM/CvHhmcNSuUg/s1600/Rick+Grimes+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VBnlpYk3IIA/UMtH4yLI8mI/AAAAAAAAJeM/CvHhmcNSuUg/s320/Rick+Grimes+Art.jpg" width="320" /></a>While he might not be doing any sort of Daredevil/Spiderman gymnast poses any time soon due to his leg balls and knees being limited (both about 45 degrees), he's got just enough flexibility in his legs as a whole to be placed in a variety of stances.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T1WnxH49wjM/UMtHXOi9yyI/AAAAAAAAJdk/6Y_E2eJjUJQ/s1600/P1000261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T1WnxH49wjM/UMtHXOi9yyI/AAAAAAAAJdk/6Y_E2eJjUJQ/s320/P1000261.JPG" width="241" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Fun: 9/10</span></b> - He's a police officer in a cowboy hat, has a bag o' guns, a pistol, and a hatchet. &nbsp;Throw in a zombie or ten and it's off the wall!<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Value: 9.5/10</span></b> - The tag on this guy says S$19.90, but I think I got at least 10% more off for him! &nbsp;You don't see figures this detailed, this well painted, and this well accessorized for these prices any more these days--or at least they are few and far between.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WSHVtrTdk-8/UMtHdLnYl2I/AAAAAAAAJds/UCM7JUN94ao/s1600/P1000262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WSHVtrTdk-8/UMtHdLnYl2I/AAAAAAAAJds/UCM7JUN94ao/s640/P1000262.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />To top it all off, he comes from one of the, if not the most, popular zombie franchise out there right now, so there's no doubting his score in the value department.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ShWQf-3hoLQ/UMtHGBAtnzI/AAAAAAAAJdU/VJxG_W811NM/s1600/P1000253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ShWQf-3hoLQ/UMtHGBAtnzI/AAAAAAAAJdU/VJxG_W811NM/s320/P1000253.JPG" width="296" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Overall: 9.25/10 </span></b>- Bonus points for being my favourite character from the series!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RP8_ew_PQ_U/UMtHO0HPg-I/AAAAAAAAJdc/GaHlgoo2K9w/s1600/P1000256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RP8_ew_PQ_U/UMtHO0HPg-I/AAAAAAAAJdc/GaHlgoo2K9w/s320/P1000256.JPG" width="240" /></a>But it would be more accurate to say he's the guy I'm most intrigued with when he comes on screen--I'm always looking forward to what he's going to do next, whether it's storm a zombie-infested city on a horse or, heck, stay on a farm. &nbsp;I have yet to read the graphic novels, but I imagine he'll be even more kickass there in his own comicbook way. &nbsp;And all that just based on the awesomeness of this figure!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zOg7NTqLb-I/UMtHkXX1eeI/AAAAAAAAJd0/vWv6PGHWrTM/s1600/P1000265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="610" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zOg7NTqLb-I/UMtHkXX1eeI/AAAAAAAAJd0/vWv6PGHWrTM/s640/P1000265.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3TgFzKxdGNw/UMtHy7dqI8I/AAAAAAAAJeE/zteJ1loU2Ag/s1600/P1000267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="616" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3TgFzKxdGNw/UMtHy7dqI8I/AAAAAAAAJeE/zteJ1loU2Ag/s640/P1000267.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/12/walking-dead-5-comic-series-officer.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-255381610852282576Wed, 28 Nov 2012 13:07:00 +00002012-11-28T21:07:50.136+08:00CollectorContestStar WarsContest Time!Hey guys, it's been a good, albeit unscheduled, month off (where did the time go?).<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fcKd85Wi-7E/ULXhzJ2RT0I/AAAAAAAAJUY/m3yL6TFPBBo/s1600/CV125x125Complete.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fcKd85Wi-7E/ULXhzJ2RT0I/AAAAAAAAJUY/m3yL6TFPBBo/s1600/CV125x125Complete.gif" /></a>So time to get back into the thick of things!&nbsp; And what better way to do it than with a contest?<br /><br />Well, I can't take credit for this next giveaway, because our friends down at DASH Collector-Action Figures are behind it!<br /><br />What can you win, I hear you ask?&nbsp; Let me let them tell you how!<br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings></xml><![endif]--><br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>ZH-CN</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> 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table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-language:EN-US;} </style><![endif]--> <br /><div class="MsoNormal"></div><a name='more'></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Welcome to DASH, Here’s a Hot Toys Luke Skywalker Giveaway</b><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.collector-actionfigures.com/?ref=CVT" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fsjAdU_QExw/ULXhv2aa9BI/AAAAAAAAJUQ/1OCyIE7p298/s640/CommunityContest%235.png" width="640" /></a>&nbsp;</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Hey Chasers, in case you haven’t heard of <a href="http://www.collector-actionfigures.com/?ref=CVT">Collector-ActionFigures.com</a>, we wanted to make a strong first impression. In fact, we’re giving away a <a href="http://www.collector-actionfigures.com/dash/universe/catalog_item/AF-166804/?ref=CVT">Hot Toys Luke Skywalker</a> to make sure you remember us. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp;</span>This beautiful figure is valued at almost $300, includes a bundle of extras, and is being given away to one lucky collector for free by Collector-ActionFigures.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">For your chance to win Luke Skywalker, all you need to do is <a href="https://www.collector-actionfigures.com/dash/accounts/register/?ref=CVT">complete a free membership registration with Collector-ActionFigures</a>. It doesn’t cost a dime and only takes a minute, but make sure you go through the entire process to activate your account. Not only will you then be entered to win the contest, you’ll also have access to the internet’s best catalog of action figures. There’s simply no better way to start off a digital collection on DASH than by entering a classic figure like this Hot Toys beauty into your collection.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Enjoy your new membership, and we wish you good luck towards winning this unbelievable masterpiece of a prize.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Contest Details</b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span>*All entries must be received by 11:59p.m. ET on Friday November 30th. (12.59pm Saturday Dec 1 Singapore Time!)</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span>*One grand prize winner will be selected at random.&nbsp;</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></span>*For an international winner, the first $10 will be paid for shipping, and the rest will be paid by the contestant. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">For complete contest rules and requirements, please email corey@Collector-ActionFigures.com</i></div>http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/11/contest-time.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-1817389923790962706Mon, 29 Oct 2012 18:29:00 +00002012-10-30T02:29:18.336+08:00DefensorHenkei/ClassicsHot SpotTransformersVoyager ClassTransformers Classics Generations Hot Spot (Voyager Class)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K_Pq9SzuIBM/UI69GvGbE5I/AAAAAAAAJPA/FRqg1gIjNb4/s1600/P1000077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K_Pq9SzuIBM/UI69GvGbE5I/AAAAAAAAJPA/FRqg1gIjNb4/s320/P1000077.JPG" width="272" /></a></div>It's been too damn long since I last reviewed a Transformer.<br /><br />No, it isn't because I like them any less, nor is it the because there's been too much great stuff from Marvel and DC. (There has been but that's not the reason: a toy that gets me excited will get me raring to review it no matter what.)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CB6CmnWiNZ0/UI69lwYCZZI/AAAAAAAAJPQ/Fmj7Es6-2oQ/s1600/P1000079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CB6CmnWiNZ0/UI69lwYCZZI/AAAAAAAAJPQ/Fmj7Es6-2oQ/s320/P1000079.JPG" width="272" /></a>The real reason is that I'm a real G1 fan. &nbsp;Don't get me wrong, I'm not staunchly "only G1 toys." &nbsp;In fact, I think those toys are dated. &nbsp;But I think their designs are timeless. &nbsp;Clean lines, very human-like faces, yet on the whole very much robot. &nbsp;And I love it when they take it back to the drawing board and give us a brand new toy with all the bells and whistle but with and update on the classic look.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fnJJvIYyyIg/UI69TCLbDfI/AAAAAAAAJPI/qJT_d-aNeNE/s1600/P1000078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fnJJvIYyyIg/UI69TCLbDfI/AAAAAAAAJPI/qJT_d-aNeNE/s320/P1000078.JPG" width="156" /></a>That's why I love my Henkei Optimus Prime, Bumblebee and Cliff Jumper, Generations Hot Rod, etc.<br /><br />And that's why I love Hot Spot.<br /><br />This guy and me go a long way back. &nbsp;After Optimus Prime died in the Animated Movie, Hot Spot was my new favourite. &nbsp;He kinda looked like Prime, was the leader of the Protectobots, and had a posse that would have his back no matter what. &nbsp;If things got rough, they could even merge and form Defensor! &nbsp;Needless to say he was my favourite combiner.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1E1R-dT4iv8/UI69oKsg1xI/AAAAAAAAJPY/tfMGok-I7gU/s1600/Hot+Spot+Stats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1E1R-dT4iv8/UI69oKsg1xI/AAAAAAAAJPY/tfMGok-I7gU/s320/Hot+Spot+Stats.jpg" width="320" /></a>So when I saw thins guy n the shelf, I didn't hesitate. &nbsp;I knew he was in short supply, since I saw one of him to every three Megatron and Power Dive. &nbsp;To find out they are all part of an Asian exclusive line just make me think how lucky I am to be living in this part of the world!<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fYn5h0vYRpI/UI69tlJe8iI/AAAAAAAAJPg/xBXRWLV_1Dw/s1600/P1000088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fYn5h0vYRpI/UI69tlJe8iI/AAAAAAAAJPg/xBXRWLV_1Dw/s320/P1000088.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Hot Spot's blue. &nbsp;I know, it's probably the most annoying shade of blue a Transformer can be, but it's the exact same blue the original toy was (or at least I remember it to be). &nbsp;They've cast it just the right shade to make your eyes hurt under bright light. Lol.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The little details on the sculpt--metal pipes here, pistons and complicated machinery there. &nbsp;His thighs have this "robot" detail, and his forearms have the exhaust pipes from when he's in vehicle mode. &nbsp;These are hidden by panels which fold down when he's in robot mode. &nbsp;The tops of his feet have nicely silvered double pistons--those are my favourite detail!<br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HZHmTGt-yko/UI6-lhm9qxI/AAAAAAAAJQk/IxjS9id6U_Y/s1600/P1000097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HZHmTGt-yko/UI6-lhm9qxI/AAAAAAAAJQk/IxjS9id6U_Y/s320/P1000097.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like: </span></b>The tampographed details like the the "hot spots" on the side of his torso/on his doors. &nbsp;Those look just like his classic toy but somehow even better here! &nbsp;(Well, for one, their not stickers put tampos. &nbsp;Lol.) &nbsp;I like the black wind shields, which is something different from the G1 toy, which has a chest panel that hinges upward to add to his pecs. &nbsp;Hot Spot's black opaque glass windshield are different from&nbsp;his buck-mates Inferno and Grapple--clear wind shields are for the less cool 'Bots. ;)<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S4O4efQ1cxg/UI69yWI4O2I/AAAAAAAAJPs/Iex4V8n0SIY/s1600/P1000089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S4O4efQ1cxg/UI69yWI4O2I/AAAAAAAAJPs/Iex4V8n0SIY/s320/P1000089.JPG" width="223" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--fM2JGJmyaM/UI693TZhRfI/AAAAAAAAJP0/-FxA8Mmntfg/s1600/P1000090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--fM2JGJmyaM/UI693TZhRfI/AAAAAAAAJP0/-FxA8Mmntfg/s200/P1000090.JPG" width="153" /></a>Also, he's got two Autobot symbols on either side behind the fiery hot spots, the sirens up top are also very cleanly applied, as is the silver of his front grille and lights, and his aforementioned pipes above his middle wheel.<br /><br />The eyes are also tampoed on a nice, dark red, like the old school toy. &nbsp;The bad thing about this is that the eyes don't get the full effect of the light piping, which is there because the back of his head is translucent but can't filter the light all the way through because of the coloured eyes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a9GwuQgIrZ4/UI6_tSTqV6I/AAAAAAAAJSE/HMFGKGvO3gM/s1600/P1000112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a9GwuQgIrZ4/UI6_tSTqV6I/AAAAAAAAJSE/HMFGKGvO3gM/s200/P1000112.JPG" width="165" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0Os598mYFZo/UI6_qvoxXfI/AAAAAAAAJR4/5LKuFn55Lr4/s1600/P1000110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0Os598mYFZo/UI6_qvoxXfI/AAAAAAAAJR4/5LKuFn55Lr4/s200/P1000110.JPG" width="173" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5HnK5wUjnBQ/UI6_sF6ZtUI/AAAAAAAAJSA/yVXYm_q6MOE/s1600/P1000111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5HnK5wUjnBQ/UI6_sF6ZtUI/AAAAAAAAJSA/yVXYm_q6MOE/s200/P1000111.JPG" width="173" /></a></div><br /><br /><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That he can't combine with the rest of the Protectobots to form Defensor. &nbsp;Worse still: they didn't/haven't released the rest of the gang as re-imagined G1 toys yet. :(<br /><br />Wouldn't it be awesome if Hasbro did something like <b><a href="http://www.tfw2005.com/boards/radicons-customs/245402-custom-defensor-protectobots.html" target="_blank">this</a></b>? (Drool...)<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-voq3soTRjhI/UI6-DXO7tEI/AAAAAAAAJQE/nE24ZTK__XM/s1600/P1000093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-voq3soTRjhI/UI6-DXO7tEI/AAAAAAAAJQE/nE24ZTK__XM/s200/P1000093.JPG" width="92" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top View</td></tr></tbody></table><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YFPHSoHHlEU/UI6-KlWNT8I/AAAAAAAAJQM/B1Z95bpF7E0/s1600/P1000094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YFPHSoHHlEU/UI6-KlWNT8I/AAAAAAAAJQM/B1Z95bpF7E0/s320/P1000094.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That his forearm blaster is part of his transformation. &nbsp;It swivels to fit nicely on the under part of his forearm and swivels again to fit perfectly as his water cannon when in fire truck mode. &nbsp;It's also a very nicely detailed sculpt that does the one thing every little boy loves and fires a projectile.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That he doesn't come with any other guns. &nbsp;His classic figure come with two giant blasters, which could be also used in Gestalt mode. &nbsp;Then again, the old toy also came with Defensor's chest piece, hand and feet. &nbsp;It's a real shame about the guns though, because he's got two gripping hands and nothing to hold in them!<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Caoc2qZDKo4/UI699vh0fzI/AAAAAAAAJP8/RKEGWTCx2YI/s1600/P1000092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Caoc2qZDKo4/UI699vh0fzI/AAAAAAAAJP8/RKEGWTCx2YI/s200/P1000092.JPG" width="92" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bottom View</td></tr></tbody></table><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4jAszWkRhus/UI6-Sim9E9I/AAAAAAAAJQU/rDDMz3X76KA/s1600/P1000095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4jAszWkRhus/UI6-Sim9E9I/AAAAAAAAJQU/rDDMz3X76KA/s320/P1000095.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> His size. &nbsp;He may be a Voyager Class figure but stands taller than my Henkei Prime. &nbsp;Of course, the scale of characters in the G1 cartoon wasn't always consistent, but I'd like to think of my combiner leaders as being fairly large. &nbsp;So slightly larger than the greatest Autobot leader is fine by me. &nbsp;After all, when the Protectobots or any other Gestalts combine, they should be larger than almost everyone else!<br /><br /><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That Hot Spot's missing his classic&nbsp;extendable&nbsp;ladder! &nbsp;That thing was a huge hit with everyone I knew back in the day because it could really extend to something like double the old toy's height! &nbsp;And what's a fire truck without a ladder, anyways? &nbsp;Lol.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b2OMBnbRdns/UI6-b3vpl0I/AAAAAAAAJQc/GhmIC0u72mg/s1600/P1000096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b2OMBnbRdns/UI6-b3vpl0I/AAAAAAAAJQc/GhmIC0u72mg/s320/P1000096.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V2ezQC9qOdg/UI6_Yqcu75I/AAAAAAAAJRc/ByDNrhKwOw0/s1600/P1000106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V2ezQC9qOdg/UI6_Yqcu75I/AAAAAAAAJRc/ByDNrhKwOw0/s200/P1000106.JPG" width="150" /></a>Also, when combined as Defensor, the ladder hung down his back like it was the coolest (and largest) robot pony tail. &nbsp;And since he was the only one who had it, Defensor was the Mack Daddy of combiners everywhere and they all gave him envious looks every where he went.<br /><br />They were jealous of his strength, good looks, intelligence, and that full head of hair (that of course ended in that bitchin' and yet usable pony tail.) &nbsp;He could also use it to smack them in the face when in brawl between Gestalts, making him the ultimate fighter among his brethren.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kTAThbqXL9M/UI6_pfeaCnI/AAAAAAAAJRw/-08jDHkR0nU/s1600/P1000109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kTAThbqXL9M/UI6_pfeaCnI/AAAAAAAAJRw/-08jDHkR0nU/s200/P1000109.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p2TFW2lSpxk/UI6-tqy1WgI/AAAAAAAAJQs/lGyARXHcj6M/s1600/P1000100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p2TFW2lSpxk/UI6-tqy1WgI/AAAAAAAAJQs/lGyARXHcj6M/s320/P1000100.JPG" width="301" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That the kibble that forms over his arms in robot mode can be swivelled round to the back to give his shoulders and forearms maximum movement. &nbsp;I also think it's looks better hanging behind his arm than at is side.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That the back of the figure is literally missing. &nbsp;From the front, he looks great. &nbsp;from the side, he looks like his missing the back half of his torso. &nbsp;From the back, he looks completely naked. &nbsp;This is the one drawback of this sculpt that prevented me from getting Inferno and then Grapple when they were initially released. &nbsp;But this is Hot Spot! &nbsp;And with his release, Hasbro got me in <i>my</i> soft spot.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0_GYoeWRRjE/UI6-63roNPI/AAAAAAAAJQ8/dxmzLWxR7d0/s1600/Hot+Spot+Art+Back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="331" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0_GYoeWRRjE/UI6-63roNPI/AAAAAAAAJQ8/dxmzLWxR7d0/s400/Hot+Spot+Art+Back.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That modern day Transformers toys continue to have magnificent articulation. &nbsp;Gone are the days when limbs were only articulated when it served the transformation of the figure. &nbsp;Now, it seems every limb has swivels and hinges all over the place, hidden so well that you actually have to play with the toy several times to discover them. &nbsp;Hot Spot is no different!<br /><br /><span style="color: red;"><b>Dislike:</b></span> That he's missing a torso swivel. &nbsp;It's tough to give robots chest pivots like in superhero/human/organic figures. &nbsp;A hinge might be better but would serve no purpose, really. &nbsp;But a hinge would go a long way towards helping Hot Spot out in many a pose and making him look less like he had &nbsp;giant paunch (which he doesn't! &nbsp;It's all mechanical muscle, I tell you. &nbsp;And with space for the Matrix of Leadership. &nbsp;Just in case.) &nbsp;A torso hinge would make this great figure even better.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XpfB1IqLLjg/UI6_A5wMjFI/AAAAAAAAJRE/C1cYE0emSo8/s1600/Hot+Spot+Art+Front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XpfB1IqLLjg/UI6_A5wMjFI/AAAAAAAAJRE/C1cYE0emSo8/s400/Hot+Spot+Art+Front.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HIs cannon also has a hinge! &nbsp;Doh!</td></tr></tbody></table><u><b>RATINGS</b></u><br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Aesthetics: 9/10</span></b> - Beautiful! &nbsp;the more I look at it, the more I smile. &nbsp;I talked about liking new, updated takes on G1 figures and well, this is one of them. &nbsp;It's a look that is probably better than the original and has lines that look cleaner than the G1 design too. &nbsp;And of course, his head design is still kinda like Optimus Prime's! &nbsp;In fact, it could be that they are long lost brothers... ;P<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Poseability: 8/10</b></span> - As all modern transformers toys are, Hot Spot is superbly articulated. &nbsp;Also, being a Voyager Class size figure, he's got the bulk and weight to be stable in most any pose. &nbsp;Add to that the many straight edges of a TF's robot form and he'll balance in just about any pose you can put him in.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-970cAg_SQ0s/UI6-06fsYfI/AAAAAAAAJQ0/3fhXFlkZl0Y/s1600/P1000101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-970cAg_SQ0s/UI6-06fsYfI/AAAAAAAAJQ0/3fhXFlkZl0Y/s320/P1000101.JPG" width="312" /></a></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y4xQMW7gOxU/UI6_I6H5rNI/AAAAAAAAJRM/LWnQKGGxg1A/s1600/P1000102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y4xQMW7gOxU/UI6_I6H5rNI/AAAAAAAAJRM/LWnQKGGxg1A/s200/P1000102.JPG" width="200" /></a>Hot Spot's joints are also nice and tight, which is a testament to the quality control the 'Bro has on Transformers. The only issue I have with this sculpt is the missing torso swivel. &nbsp;If he had that, we'd be looking at at least a 9 in this department.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MhaPsboSnVA/UI6_gA0QgHI/AAAAAAAAJRk/bkR9rUiWd3g/s1600/P1000107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MhaPsboSnVA/UI6_gA0QgHI/AAAAAAAAJRk/bkR9rUiWd3g/s320/P1000107.JPG" width="300" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Fun: 9/10</span></b> - All about the nostalgia for me. &nbsp;Optimus Prime needs his best ever Second-in-Command/successor, after all.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VKlxdniOql0/UI7AEfdI3XI/AAAAAAAAJSg/v13uFeOPXiE/s1600/P1000117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VKlxdniOql0/UI7AEfdI3XI/AAAAAAAAJSg/v13uFeOPXiE/s200/P1000117.JPG" width="128" /></a>The fire truck mode is nice and tight and clips together very well, not to mentions rolls smoothly too. &nbsp;Though I do miss the classic ladder and the twin guns he used to wield because he is smarter than any Autobot or Decepticon, this guy is still very much a joy to play with. &nbsp;It would be even better if he could actually combine to form Defensor, but that might be wishing a little to much of this sculpt. &nbsp;Then again, if you saw those pics in the <a href="http://www.tfw2005.com/boards/radicons-customs/245402-custom-defensor-protectobots.html" target="_blank">link</a> above, you might think we've asked too little! ;P<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--JUlYsOeMwM/UI7ALN7fEzI/AAAAAAAAJSo/rAxi8hwbxP0/s1600/P1000118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="197" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--JUlYsOeMwM/UI7ALN7fEzI/AAAAAAAAJSo/rAxi8hwbxP0/s200/P1000118.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hNlS-6F2JOU/UI6_9qU_zuI/AAAAAAAAJSY/q9dKWstznKI/s1600/P1000116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hNlS-6F2JOU/UI6_9qU_zuI/AAAAAAAAJSY/q9dKWstznKI/s320/P1000116.JPG" width="313" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Value: 8/10</span></b> - At the standard retail of $54.90 a pop, he's par for the course. &nbsp;But at 20% off I got him on, it put him down to $43.90. &nbsp;That's decent. &nbsp;It's a steal for me though because Hot Spot's not just an Asian exclusive, but a shorter packed one and not to mention, one of my favourite Autobots of all time!<br /><br />He could do better in the accessories (guns) department for sure, though.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vCNnqspqpOI/UI6_2N-SGkI/AAAAAAAAJSQ/S-fUOcubcT4/s1600/P1000115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vCNnqspqpOI/UI6_2N-SGkI/AAAAAAAAJSQ/S-fUOcubcT4/s400/P1000115.JPG" width="400" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Overall: 8.8/10</span></b> - Hot Spot is heavy in the memories department for me, so there are some bonus points here. The surprising thing is that I didn't realize how different the G1 toy looked from this version. &nbsp;But I welcome an update, a cleaning up, and an improvement on the design, which this definitely is--I just love the new yet classic look!<br /><br />Hot Spot isn't for everyone but for those of you, like me, who love this guy, he's a must-have. &nbsp;Just like those who love Grapple and/or Inferno, I wouldn't miss out on getting him while he's still available in retail. &nbsp;And like those who love the latter duo, I now understand why I don't see any more of them on the shelves--you guys simply had to have them! ;)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UX06Ebt8NAU/UI7AUTGZ1mI/AAAAAAAAJSw/l9C008AH9RQ/s1600/P1000119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UX06Ebt8NAU/UI7AUTGZ1mI/AAAAAAAAJSw/l9C008AH9RQ/s400/P1000119.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>I also might just now have to go out and buy the recently released Combaticons! &nbsp;Sure, they aren't in G1 style, but they're the closest I've seen in recent times and are all Deluxe class figures, meaning they'll form a pretty large combiner! &nbsp;It's probably the first time in along time that they've released a combiner that size--none of that movie Constructicons fiasco where only the Legends size figures combine. &nbsp;Hooray to Hasbro for listening to the fans and giving us some "real-sized" combiners! &nbsp;It's time now to break some new ground and give us Voyagers who can combine with Deluxes and surely it'll be too much of a stretch to ask that of Hot Spot. &nbsp; But one can always hope!http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/10/transformers-classics-generations-hot.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-5132521355445065549Sat, 27 Oct 2012 07:14:00 +00002012-10-27T15:14:44.320+08:003-pack3.75-inchAction Figure ComicsBaron ZemoExclusiveMarvel UniverseMasters of EvilRadioactive ManTiger SharkMarvel Universe 3.75" Masters of Evil 3-Pack (SDCC 2012 Exclusive)<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lIQGY2lxK1A/UItqR_os3QI/AAAAAAAAJFc/_jwyyBU-zww/s1600/IMG_2057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lIQGY2lxK1A/UItqR_os3QI/AAAAAAAAJFc/_jwyyBU-zww/s320/IMG_2057.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I thought I'd see this set a lot more here in Singapore despite the fact that it was an San Diego Comic Con 2012 Exclusive. &nbsp;We're lucky down here because we usually see SDCC Exclusives as store exclusives somewhere down the road. &nbsp;And even if they don't show up in your regular department store or Toys R Us, they usually make it to the local weekend toy "flea market," though it's at "collector" prices.</div><div><br /></div><div>But there was no sign of the Masters of Evil here, no sign until <u style="font-weight: bold;">STGCC 2012</u>&nbsp;and Toyrealm had brought a few sets in as their "Exclusive". &nbsp;Okay, so they didn't call it as such, but Vincent was the only one who'd bought it in. &nbsp;Despite the rather hefty price, I didn't want to miss out on this box set because it was one of the few Exclusives at SDCC 2012 that caught my eye.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2qTGxmhTsqA/UItqWLOjM8I/AAAAAAAAJFk/FOVDw6Zl8r0/s1600/IMG_2058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2qTGxmhTsqA/UItqWLOjM8I/AAAAAAAAJFk/FOVDw6Zl8r0/s320/IMG_2058.JPG" width="320" /></a>Now I don't particularly like any of the Masters of Evil guys as individuals, but as a group, I think they're more than worthy adversaries for the Avengers. &nbsp;After all, they did form up for that purpose--to take on the good guys.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div>The list of characters on the Masters of Evil roster is almost as long as that of the Avengers'.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G57hsPiPgD4/UItqcKqZMaI/AAAAAAAAJF0/_j41nrVFWCg/s1600/IMG_2060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G57hsPiPgD4/UItqcKqZMaI/AAAAAAAAJF0/_j41nrVFWCg/s320/IMG_2060.JPG" width="161" /></a>In Marvel Universe 3.75" figure terms, this is the list of made characters so far :<br /><div><br /></div><div>Absorbing Man</div><div>Constrictor</div><div>Enchantress</div><div>Klaw</div><div>Ultron-5</div><div>Wonder Man</div><div>Whiplash (Iron Man 2 Comic Series)</div><div>The Wrecking Crew:</div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp; -Bulldozer</div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp; -Thunderball</div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp; -Piledriver</div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp; -Wrecker</div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mccR5CdusYg/UItz6clU8-I/AAAAAAAAJK0/zl5sXmHCeJk/s1600/P1000076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="221" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mccR5CdusYg/UItz6clU8-I/AAAAAAAAJK0/zl5sXmHCeJk/s400/P1000076.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toastin' it the way only bad guys know how to...</td></tr></tbody></table>That's about 10% of the villains on <u style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Masters_of_Evil_members" target="_blank">this list</a></u>&nbsp;and not nearly enough to make a formidable force on the toy shelf!</div><div><br /></div><div>Thankfully, we can add a couple more members to the roster, as well as&nbsp;their dreaded leader!</div><div><br /></div><div>Enter Baron Zemo,&nbsp;Radioactive Man, and&nbsp;Tiger Shark!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ohRNpJ3BhU4/UItqY7hZo_I/AAAAAAAAJFs/kOwKPzVTam0/s1600/IMG_2059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ohRNpJ3BhU4/UItqY7hZo_I/AAAAAAAAJFs/kOwKPzVTam0/s640/IMG_2059.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a name='more'></a></div><div><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Like:</b></span> That we got three characters in a set that otherwise would've probably taken a while more to be released individually. &nbsp;True, everyone would probably by a single Baron Zemo. &nbsp;But can you imagine the countless Tiger Shark and the zounds(!) of Radioactive Man that would stay on the pegs? &nbsp;Sure, us Marvel fanatics would pick them up, but imagine the kid walking through the toy aisles:</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b15LJnjV4ao/UItqwMzwq1I/AAAAAAAAJF8/gR6bWlSZoAQ/s1600/P1000020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b15LJnjV4ao/UItqwMzwq1I/AAAAAAAAJF8/gR6bWlSZoAQ/s320/P1000020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Kid: <i>Mom! &nbsp;I wanna buy Tiger Shark. &nbsp;He's awesome cool with all his sharp teeth and that giant fin on his head!</i></div><div><br /></div><div>Mom: <i>You wanna buy who? &nbsp;Ugh, he looks evil with all that teeth! (Duh.) &nbsp;Here, why not pick up some more swell like Captain America?</i></div><div><br /></div><div>Kid: <i>Aww man. &nbsp;How about Radioactive Man? &nbsp;He's all cool and green and stuff!</i></div><div><br /></div><div>Mom: <i>Definitely not. &nbsp;I'm not buying you a super villain, much less one that doesn't wear any pants.</i><br /><br />Kid: <i>Man. &nbsp;Just because Dad doesn't wear pants at home....</i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fe4KDxcRDWs/UItriwqR18I/AAAAAAAAJGQ/WM0RMao_smU/s1600/P1000023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fe4KDxcRDWs/UItriwqR18I/AAAAAAAAJGQ/WM0RMao_smU/s320/P1000023.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>So yeah, I'm happy we got some of the more obscure villains along with a much wanted bad guy mastermind!</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AsiIcovy-hE/UItunGyf4JI/AAAAAAAAJH8/_bQLxDOJTac/s1600/P1000052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AsiIcovy-hE/UItunGyf4JI/AAAAAAAAJH8/_bQLxDOJTac/s320/P1000052.JPG" width="240" /></a><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Like:</b></span> That two of the three sculpts are the newer, more mobile bucks. &nbsp;Zemo's got the slender buck with the new thigh cuts and the newer rotating ankles, while Tiger Shark has the same on the tall buck. &nbsp;Both have chest pivots and waists. &nbsp;That's just simply great articulation.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That they slipped one old buck in with Radioactive Man :( &nbsp;You'll also wanna watch out for Zemo's PoAs, which can be loose right out of the box. &nbsp;Mine's got a loose left thigh swivel. &nbsp;Both Tiger Shark and Zemo also don;t have the new deeper leg ball-joints. &nbsp;I don't know why this is, unless they'd already planned the set way in advance before they'd improved the joints as they have in the new MU waves.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ssmSpMEgXoM/UItzcqoPARI/AAAAAAAAJKU/ZnlWA2R4A6k/s1600/P1000071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ssmSpMEgXoM/UItzcqoPARI/AAAAAAAAJKU/ZnlWA2R4A6k/s320/P1000071.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zdH_9T5TCyk/UItr7IynOZI/AAAAAAAAJGY/kaIhwwx4HyI/s1600/P1000025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zdH_9T5TCyk/UItr7IynOZI/AAAAAAAAJGY/kaIhwwx4HyI/s320/P1000025.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The tooling of special parts for Zemo. &nbsp;His shoulder/collar piece, his fur boot rings. &nbsp;The head with his exotic looking mask. &nbsp;There's also his sword and gun, which is a Han Solo blaster right out of the Star Wars line. &nbsp;Great paint on all of these.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That the shoulder piece is very loose. &nbsp;I'm ok that it's not glued down, but it could&nbsp;definitely&nbsp;fit better/tighter. &nbsp;Also, his sword is&nbsp;entirely&nbsp;too short. &nbsp;Well and good if it's meant to be a short sword. &nbsp;But the guy is an expert fencer, so there's not way he'd be caught with a blade that's a glorified dagger!<br /><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-quDae4ezZMw/UIuBMHsqdeI/AAAAAAAAJMg/ZJywnUSPFmY/s1600/Short+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-quDae4ezZMw/UIuBMHsqdeI/AAAAAAAAJMg/ZJywnUSPFmY/s640/Short+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ghQiNGsFw_k/UIuBayUaTBI/AAAAAAAAJMo/gGAlJif6msQ/s1600/Short+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ghQiNGsFw_k/UIuBayUaTBI/AAAAAAAAJMo/gGAlJif6msQ/s640/Short+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Tiger Shark's head. &nbsp;The sneer is equal parts&nbsp;villainous, cruel&nbsp;and joy and the former two. &nbsp;His gums are a fresh pink-red, while his teeth are picked out ever so well. &nbsp;Oh and check out that fin! &nbsp;That would fetch a tidy sum if sold on the black market for shark's fin soup! (Don't try it, those poor sharks die horribly... :'{ )<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--bxLgFO7X9w/UItxQaLlEzI/AAAAAAAAJJU/T477pXg3WcQ/s1600/P1000064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--bxLgFO7X9w/UItxQaLlEzI/AAAAAAAAJJU/T477pXg3WcQ/s200/P1000064.JPG" width="170" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AgxdLgdNyUA/UItxKXLdTiI/AAAAAAAAJJI/dfbmf0VGPfM/s1600/P1000063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AgxdLgdNyUA/UItxKXLdTiI/AAAAAAAAJJI/dfbmf0VGPfM/s200/P1000063.JPG" width="107" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oBzF444j64E/UItxV6hs5jI/AAAAAAAAJJc/ub_LYlzPnrs/s1600/P1000065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oBzF444j64E/UItxV6hs5jI/AAAAAAAAJJc/ub_LYlzPnrs/s200/P1000065.JPG" width="167" /></a></div><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--zIAT8YN6ys/UItu-9be6lI/AAAAAAAAJII/Hh7ZA6HNDOo/s1600/P1000054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--zIAT8YN6ys/UItu-9be6lI/AAAAAAAAJII/Hh7ZA6HNDOo/s320/P1000054.JPG" width="320" /></a>Tiger's entire costume is also completely made up of paint apps. &nbsp;The shiny purple/blue in done clean enough, while there's paint wash on all his orange parts to bring out the definition. &nbsp;No part of him is unpainted.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ILeHElEabwk/UItzDIKxGJI/AAAAAAAAJKI/WvunbD86NpU/s1600/P1000070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ILeHElEabwk/UItzDIKxGJI/AAAAAAAAJKI/WvunbD86NpU/s200/P1000070.JPG" width="150" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Radioactive Man's green. &nbsp;His costume is also quite awesome and I think one of the few in the Marvel Universe which is baggy instead of completely body-hugging. &nbsp;It's made from soft plastic instead of just painted on.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GSu-tj03xBg/UItySZRbbtI/AAAAAAAAJJ4/nPNN95DzaGY/s1600/P1000068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GSu-tj03xBg/UItySZRbbtI/AAAAAAAAJJ4/nPNN95DzaGY/s320/P1000068.JPG" width="320" /></a>(He was so radioactively green that I had trouble taking photos of him! &nbsp;Just look at the interference in these shots! &nbsp;Lol okay, I'm kidding. &nbsp;I just got a new camera after the Old Faithful wigged out and this was the first review I was using it to do. &nbsp;The photos turned out a lot worse than I thought and for that, i apologize. &nbsp;I've got it right since though. &nbsp;Watch&nbsp;this space! ;P)</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W3hh_AyypC4/UItuL18GODI/AAAAAAAAJH0/c0BmU7jT1K8/s1600/P1000050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W3hh_AyypC4/UItuL18GODI/AAAAAAAAJH0/c0BmU7jT1K8/s320/P1000050.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That his costume, which is supposed to be a onesie like thing, is open at the bottom beneath his crotch. &nbsp;It makes him look like he's wearing a singlet with no pants! &nbsp;(Or underwear for that matter...)</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--BcPKfqmwMs/UItvYrjspRI/AAAAAAAAJIQ/LUI5ILztf6Q/s1600/P1000055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--BcPKfqmwMs/UItvYrjspRI/AAAAAAAAJIQ/LUI5ILztf6Q/s320/P1000055.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That they used a medium buck for radioactive man and sculpted the costume, giving him not just the right bulk but also a unique medium-plus size. &nbsp;He's not as tall as Tiger Shark but just as broad.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vr59gjhM3P4/UItsBJZGGTI/AAAAAAAAJGg/R9FeRsbELIc/s1600/P1000026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="122" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vr59gjhM3P4/UItsBJZGGTI/AAAAAAAAJGg/R9FeRsbELIc/s200/P1000026.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b>&nbsp;The set is great on tooling, but it needs more accessories! &nbsp;even the gun and the sword that come with Zemo don't fit well in his hands. &nbsp;I suppose that's more of a Zemo problem than an accessories problem.</div><div><br /></div><div><u><b>RATINGS</b></u></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IZcS_EYAmpw/UItsREKc1xI/AAAAAAAAJGs/7hWBu4_VSA8/s1600/P1000030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="182" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IZcS_EYAmpw/UItsREKc1xI/AAAAAAAAJGs/7hWBu4_VSA8/s200/P1000030.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oIS-le6Gi9w/UIuCYH_KfSI/AAAAAAAAJNE/6w1O1ej-bhc/s1600/P1000039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oIS-le6Gi9w/UIuCYH_KfSI/AAAAAAAAJNE/6w1O1ej-bhc/s320/P1000039.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Aesthetics:</span></b> A great looking set. &nbsp;Colour-wise, they complement each other very well.Size wise, I like that we have a slim Zemo, a bulky Rad Man, and a big Tiger Shark. (Luke Cage size). &nbsp;and it's in the great painting and tooling of parts that you can see where the cost of the figures went.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #a64d79;">Zemo: 8.5/10</span></b> - Love the paint wash all over him, especially on his fur trim, his head, and the purple parts of his uniform.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: lime;">Rad Man: 7.5/10</span></b> - Great translucent glowy green parts!</div><div><b><span style="color: orange;"><br /></span></b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XfJ-46HgaSA/UItzkDNz5gI/AAAAAAAAJKk/WzVC9gfOhlU/s1600/P1000074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XfJ-46HgaSA/UItzkDNz5gI/AAAAAAAAJKk/WzVC9gfOhlU/s200/P1000074.JPG" width="175" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yXEECmxsR5Q/UItzgfkKeNI/AAAAAAAAJKc/mQtOfuqS7-4/s1600/P1000073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yXEECmxsR5Q/UItzgfkKeNI/AAAAAAAAJKc/mQtOfuqS7-4/s200/P1000073.JPG" width="142" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sc1a8xG06sA/UItzm7JZsOI/AAAAAAAAJKs/-_nFQ_b3Sqo/s1600/P1000075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sc1a8xG06sA/UItzm7JZsOI/AAAAAAAAJKs/-_nFQ_b3Sqo/s200/P1000075.JPG" width="175" /></a></div><b><span style="color: orange;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="color: orange;">Tiger Shark: 9/10</span></b> - They could've left him all yellow but they didn't. Instead, he's been washed all over in thin orange paint. &nbsp;He's got great teeth, picked out very nicely. The shiny blue is also awesomely tampographed on!<br /><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K0lneIx8XJo/UItxGlM3UvI/AAAAAAAAJJA/iPNclGSpcxU/s1600/P1000061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K0lneIx8XJo/UItxGlM3UvI/AAAAAAAAJJA/iPNclGSpcxU/s320/P1000061.JPG" width="288" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QsjppBJbD7o/UItvvvfA7CI/AAAAAAAAJIc/QHyAmqFiSHc/s1600/P1000056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QsjppBJbD7o/UItvvvfA7CI/AAAAAAAAJIc/QHyAmqFiSHc/s320/P1000056.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Poseability:</span> </b>A deceptively poseable set because you can see in package that Rad Man is an older buck.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sIgGAMpWuE4/UIuCpAiyF6I/AAAAAAAAJNQ/blVE5rpqQeU/s1600/Radman+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sIgGAMpWuE4/UIuCpAiyF6I/AAAAAAAAJNQ/blVE5rpqQeU/s320/Radman+Art.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Tiger Shark looks the most flexible because you can see his thigh and waist swivels among the other standard PoAs.<br /><br />But Zemo is the one that has a sneaky buck that has the boot top swivels concealed. the waist swivel is impossible to see&nbsp;in the box because the guy is hiding it with his flashy gold belt!</div><div><br /></div><div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VmvP8LCjGd0/UIuDKil-vYI/AAAAAAAAJNg/8nzDBXZ80pQ/s1600/Zemo+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VmvP8LCjGd0/UIuDKil-vYI/AAAAAAAAJNg/8nzDBXZ80pQ/s320/Zemo+Art.jpg" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #a64d79;">Zemo: 8/10</span></b> - Tooling doesn't get in the way of this skinny buck. &nbsp;Joints are well hidden. &nbsp;But beware the loose joints, espeically after posing him for a bit.</div><div><b><span style="color: lime;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="color: lime;">Rad Man: 7/10</span></b> - He's got an old buck and his torso movement is severely limited by soft plastic onesie.</div><div><span style="color: orange;"><b><br /></b></span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--xFMQN0DvWs/UIuC5k8vr-I/AAAAAAAAJNY/ELfNEAjiP6s/s1600/Tiger+Shark+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--xFMQN0DvWs/UIuC5k8vr-I/AAAAAAAAJNY/ELfNEAjiP6s/s320/Tiger+Shark+Art.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="color: orange;"><b>Tiger Shark: 9/10</b></span> - The guy's got everything except for double hinge elbows. &nbsp;Nothing gets in the way of his PoAs moving aside for the head, which is prevented from looking up fully because of that giant fin.</div></div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Fun:</span></b>&nbsp;This set not just adds to the Masters of Evil roster but also gives them their leader.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x927Ovr-hJY/UItsrqamAAI/AAAAAAAAJG0/bW7wf1mSnsw/s1600/P1000031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x927Ovr-hJY/UItsrqamAAI/AAAAAAAAJG0/bW7wf1mSnsw/s320/P1000031.JPG" width="240" /></a>Guys like Tiger Shark and Radioactive Man are also fun because you can imagine they have one thing they're good at and all sorts of &nbsp;play situations where they get owned by the Avengers simply because they are simply too one dimensional and probably a little bit dumb. :P</div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W2h7lpeYQNk/UItyIwqma0I/AAAAAAAAJJs/NptdKB3BfFw/s1600/P1000067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W2h7lpeYQNk/UItyIwqma0I/AAAAAAAAJJs/NptdKB3BfFw/s320/P1000067.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Faded patches? Radioactive burnout! Yeah!</td></tr></tbody></table><div><b><span style="color: #a64d79;">Zemo: 8/10</span></b> - Finally, some other than Red Skull for Captain America to fight! &nbsp;Gotta love these bad guy leaders!&nbsp;</div><div><b><span style="color: lime;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="color: lime;">Rad Man: 8/10 </span></b>-A shiny, glowy dude is always fun to look at. &nbsp;And if you get bored with that, you can always look under his "shirt." :*</div><div><b><span style="color: orange;"><br /></span></b><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xxosb0Gq8eo/UItwyilvxII/AAAAAAAAJI4/tlNPFvnOy7c/s1600/P1000060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xxosb0Gq8eo/UItwyilvxII/AAAAAAAAJI4/tlNPFvnOy7c/s320/P1000060.JPG" width="300" /></a><b><span style="color: orange;">Tiger Shark: 8/10 </span></b>- I tell you, these Masters. They have someone for everyone. &nbsp;In this case, a deep-diving supervillain every seafaring superhero. &nbsp;So Namor, eat your heart out. &nbsp;If not, Tiger Shark will do it fer ya! :P</div></div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Value:</span></b>&nbsp; It was heftily price at S$95. &nbsp;But I got it at S$85. &nbsp;Still not cheap, prompting the Rangerlord to say to me "I didn't know you wanted it <i>that</i> bad." &nbsp;Lol. &nbsp;But I was happy to pay for an Exclusive and for the chance to review it. &nbsp;It's an Exclusive after all.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uTy7HVYt0kk/UItweqBY04I/AAAAAAAAJIw/To_6S6djaCk/s1600/P1000059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uTy7HVYt0kk/UItweqBY04I/AAAAAAAAJIw/To_6S6djaCk/s320/P1000059.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: #a64d79;">Zemo: 7.5/10</span></b> - Lots of tooling, lots of great paint apps, two accessories. &nbsp;Good value.</div><div><b><span style="color: lime;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="color: lime;">Rad Man: 7/10</span></b> - Plain buck, old articulation. &nbsp;Saved by the translucent green plastic and the onesie, which was specially sculpted for his modesty.</div><div><b><span style="color: orange;"><br /></span></b><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5ZWnWtUNB-k/UIttFCpchMI/AAAAAAAAJHA/Y9TKeRYasWc/s1600/P1000032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5ZWnWtUNB-k/UIttFCpchMI/AAAAAAAAJHA/Y9TKeRYasWc/s320/P1000032.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zemo eyes up some new merchandise</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: orange;">Tiger Shark: 7.5/10</span></b> - Great articulation and equally good paint job. &nbsp;It wouldn't hurt if he came with an accessory or two, like some half eaten whale or something--a fake, 3.75" scale one, of course. &nbsp;Don't everyone go RSPCA on me. &nbsp;All right, even that's too big. &nbsp;Whale bones. &nbsp;With meat still on them. &nbsp;There. :P</div></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lxJzWZ3_ANM/UIttqvLXBvI/AAAAAAAAJHQ/nN26zcSoJq4/s1600/P1000035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lxJzWZ3_ANM/UIttqvLXBvI/AAAAAAAAJHQ/nN26zcSoJq4/s320/P1000035.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Overall:</span></b></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b><span style="color: #a64d79;">Zemo: 8/10&nbsp;</span></b></div><div><b><span style="color: lime;">Rad Man: 7.4/10</span></b></div><div><b><span style="color: orange;">Tiger Shark: &nbsp;8.4/10</span>&nbsp;</b></div></div><div><br /></div><div>A great box set that should be re-released so that it can get to the masses. &nbsp;Sure, all of us that have it may feel a little short-changed, depending on how much you paid for it.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jP3pD_TL2rw/UIt0A487DfI/AAAAAAAAJK8/VokEz65k2x8/s1600/P1000120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jP3pD_TL2rw/UIt0A487DfI/AAAAAAAAJK8/VokEz65k2x8/s640/P1000120.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I figured out the camera's best settings! Yes, I know. I forgot the Enchantress...</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>But if they do this set as a repaint, or if they give us another two different, even less prominent villains with a re-released Zemo, I wouldn't mind. &nbsp;I'd probably pick it up since there were thirteen Baron Zemos and the figure has great potential for customization because of all the removable parts. &nbsp;(You could do and elder Zemo or even a Zemo in a suit!) &nbsp;Knowing Hasbro, they'd come up with an even better way to re-release the figures, and yes, we'd probably see all of them again sometime later on the mass market!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9k9Eb3WcrPY/UIuBqfZTneI/AAAAAAAAJMw/91kNAVvL_G0/s1600/Donuts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9k9Eb3WcrPY/UIuBqfZTneI/AAAAAAAAJMw/91kNAVvL_G0/s640/Donuts.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/10/marvel-universe-375-masters-of-evil-3.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-2141662620110754248Tue, 09 Oct 2012 22:15:00 +00002012-10-10T06:15:11.186+08:003.75-inch4-packAction Figure ComicsAvengersCaptain AmericaExclusiveIron ManLokiThorThe Avengers: Original Avengers 3.75" 4-Pack! (Concept Series)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fv3aDOAmmKk/UHSVp1VBfgI/AAAAAAAAI80/yo_bUA71uWY/s1600/IMG_2118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fv3aDOAmmKk/UHSVp1VBfgI/AAAAAAAAI80/yo_bUA71uWY/s320/IMG_2118.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>As a result of a massive backlog of reviews I want to take on, I realize that not only do I have tons of unopened toys, I have tons of them in boxes. &nbsp;Which ones, you ask? &nbsp;Well, I have too many to name, so let's just call 'em a surprise for now. &nbsp;(Yeah, ok. &nbsp;I don't know myself. &nbsp;Lol.) &nbsp;For now, I'm determined to rid my collection of needless cardboard, so I'm hereby declaring October <i><b>The Month of the Box</b></i> right here on Chase Variant! &nbsp;(I'm sure you wouldn't mind if the occasional carded or loose figure review slips in. &nbsp;Right? &nbsp;Or am I right? &nbsp;Right, I'm wasting time...)<br /><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6RqcdnQ_aQA/UHSVz2IEEkI/AAAAAAAAI88/oYE55VUOnmg/s1600/IMG_2119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6RqcdnQ_aQA/UHSVz2IEEkI/AAAAAAAAI88/oYE55VUOnmg/s320/IMG_2119.JPG" width="320" /></a>So to kick it all off, I'm gonna start with my newest boxed acquisition:&nbsp;The Avengers: Original Avengers 3.75" Toys R Us Exclusive 4-Pack!</div><div><br /></div><div>I walked into one of my local TRUs last Sunday and I see this very set that I'd never seen, heard or read about it before. &nbsp;So it was a very pleasant surprise when I find one of them, face down amid some non-movie Marvel Universe figure 4-packs. &nbsp;Then the wife points out that that's not the only one there, because right above us on the shelf are about six or seven of them. &nbsp;You can imagine my amazement when I had a good look at Loki--I'd never thought I'd see them re-use the Thor movie sculpt again!</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gNT3qFXUkvI/UHSV5MwCjEI/AAAAAAAAI9M/zxes4FVLgfI/s1600/IMG_2122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gNT3qFXUkvI/UHSV5MwCjEI/AAAAAAAAI9M/zxes4FVLgfI/s400/IMG_2122.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Then I saw Iron Man--a brand new figure!--or at least a new armour. &nbsp;I couldn't tell right off if it was made from older parts but it looked like a new sculpt and I dig bulky armour, so I was at least 50% in.</div><div><br /></div><div>As for Captain America and Thor, I already have these very sculpts when they were originally released. &nbsp;Both are great figures from their respective lines, so I didn't mind taking home some repaints...for now.</div><div><br /></div><div>Yes, they look great in the box, but I hear you ask if they're just as good outside. &nbsp;Well, let's find out! ;)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I1RZnELrZUY/UHSV1Yf3VUI/AAAAAAAAI9E/ZJjaVl_dHS4/s1600/IMG_2121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="34" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I1RZnELrZUY/UHSV1Yf3VUI/AAAAAAAAI9E/ZJjaVl_dHS4/s640/IMG_2121.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a name='more'></a></div><h4><b><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Secret Strike Loki</u></span></b></h4><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8someI0LfL0/UHSWT-xKNOI/AAAAAAAAI-M/p3HuAk2QP2M/s1600/IMG_2129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8someI0LfL0/UHSWT-xKNOI/AAAAAAAAI-M/p3HuAk2QP2M/s320/IMG_2129.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like: </span></b>Oh my God it's Superior Loki!!! &nbsp;By that I mean that it's the very elusive, super-expensive-even-if-you-do-find-him Loki! &nbsp;And by <i>that</i> I mean he's a repaint of the Thor movie series 3.75" King Loki, who has all the points of articulation that we've come to love from Marvel figures of this scale. &nbsp;Compared to the recent incarnation of <u><a href="http://marvelousnews.com/database/index.php?itemid=1911"><b>The Avengers Cosmic Spear Loki</b></a></u>, "Secret Strike" Loki here (not to be confused with this <b><u><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2012/05/thor-mighty-avenger-375-secret-strike.html">Secret Strike Loki</a></u></b>) is a dream. &nbsp;And he's a dream come true because I'd never thought they would re-use this excellent buck! &nbsp;Bravo, Hasbro!</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oXU9WAphqjM/UHSWIZSqiLI/AAAAAAAAI90/S11uF-c1G6g/s1600/IMG_2126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oXU9WAphqjM/UHSWIZSqiLI/AAAAAAAAI90/S11uF-c1G6g/s320/IMG_2126.JPG" width="160" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> His metallic green armour and helmet. &nbsp;It's a very light green, which matches nicely with the green of his clothes. &nbsp;I also love that they chose this colour scheme for him. &nbsp;It's a very "green with envy" look. &nbsp;And for those of you who are also <i>A Game of Thrones/A Song of Ice and Fire</i> fans, he's very "Renly Bartheon" in colour.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nYzCzw3HlS0/UHSWbz6c6nI/AAAAAAAAI-c/_NmWp5oMMy4/s1600/IMG_2131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nYzCzw3HlS0/UHSWbz6c6nI/AAAAAAAAI-c/_NmWp5oMMy4/s320/IMG_2131.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> The green of his cloak. &nbsp;It's a little bright and flat next to his shiny light green armour and the green of his sleeves and pants. &nbsp;They've got the right idea trying to get all his cloth parts to be the same green, but somehow his cloak turned out looking just a little too bright. &nbsp;It's a minor thing, but somehow I noticed it the first time I saw the figure!<br /><b><br /></b><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span> </b>The head sculpt. &nbsp;This one's way better than the Avengers movie one by far--it's got Tom Hiddleston's sharp nose, his thin lips, and the sleek, almost almond-shaped helmet (from the side). &nbsp;The best part of the head sculpt for me is the expression. &nbsp;Loki may not be smiling, enraged, or frowning, but he does look annoyed. &nbsp;He's also got this mild look of contempt in his eyes--that's probably more down to the paint but it works--it'svery movie Loki!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lvp8zO86JtA/UHSWk-okuoI/AAAAAAAAI-0/yBryBdhYT3g/s1600/IMG_2134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lvp8zO86JtA/UHSWk-okuoI/AAAAAAAAI-0/yBryBdhYT3g/s200/IMG_2134.JPG" width="132" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fXMQdVRL8cg/UHSWiQZD7MI/AAAAAAAAI-s/lBBmU9MWRaM/s1600/IMG_2133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fXMQdVRL8cg/UHSWiQZD7MI/AAAAAAAAI-s/lBBmU9MWRaM/s200/IMG_2133.JPG" width="135" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-anS9Uac3nHo/UHSWnIwz2cI/AAAAAAAAI-8/lnBoQkA0Keo/s1600/IMG_2135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-anS9Uac3nHo/UHSWnIwz2cI/AAAAAAAAI-8/lnBoQkA0Keo/s200/IMG_2135.JPG" width="145" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K_js1vcm9Mk/UHSWf4pT4tI/AAAAAAAAI-k/S1owltoTNYo/s1600/IMG_2132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K_js1vcm9Mk/UHSWf4pT4tI/AAAAAAAAI-k/S1owltoTNYo/s320/IMG_2132.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That they gave him the two throwing daggers of the original Secret Strike Loki from the Thor movie series. &nbsp;This guy deserves at least a sceptre, if not his full staff. &nbsp;He just looks kinda cheesy dressed up so regally and wielding? &nbsp;...A couple of teeny-weeny daggers.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Like:</b></span> That they attempted a very subtle repaint for this guy. &nbsp;It's different enough that you could choose which colour scheme you prefer, assuming you had access to the Thor movie King Loki at the same time. &nbsp;But it's also similar enough that all of us who missed out on the original King Loki will be more than happy with this repaint.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That this is very much a collector's set/one for the fans, otherwise, they wouldn't have bothered with including three of the best bucks from across the movie series toys and included a brand-spankin' new Iron Man! &nbsp;That they chose Superior Loki for the set instead of another Hulk or anyone else is a real nod to the fans like us!</div><h4><b><span style="color: red;"><u>Arctic Armor Iron Man</u></span></b></h4><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sSjXyNWVmRQ/UHSWtffcWQI/AAAAAAAAI_M/QtGIXckW-wA/s1600/IMG_2136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sSjXyNWVmRQ/UHSWtffcWQI/AAAAAAAAI_M/QtGIXckW-wA/s200/IMG_2136.JPG" width="175" /></a></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-io9RW8_Ji64/UHSW4CS4y-I/AAAAAAAAI_k/6tVYrxMjXEI/s1600/IMG_2139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-io9RW8_Ji64/UHSW4CS4y-I/AAAAAAAAI_k/6tVYrxMjXEI/s320/IMG_2139.JPG" width="270" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like: </span></b>The brand new sculpt. &nbsp;Awww, Hasbro. &nbsp;You didn't really have to. &nbsp;<i>But we'll take it anyway!</i><b> &nbsp;</b>Seriously though, they've got so many bucks for Iron Man in this scale that they can just mix around some parts and/or slap on some new paint and we'd bite. &nbsp;But the 'Bro went out of the way to do something special. &nbsp;I definitely appreciate the gesture!<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Like:</b></span> The big-ass shoulder guards, hands, legs, and feet. &nbsp;While not quite the size of the <b><u><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2010/05/iron-man-2-comic-series-375-hulkbuster.html">IM2&nbsp;Hulkbuster Armour</a></u> </b>or the <b><u><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2010/10/iron-man-2-concept-series-375-3-pack.html">Proving Ground Hulkbuster</a></u></b>, this suit is still larger than the standard sized Iron Men for sure. &nbsp;If Tony Stark had labels for his armour size like we had t-shirt size labels, this guy would be an L in between the standard M and the Hulkbuster XL. &nbsp;The only thing that's regular-sized is his head. &nbsp;That lends to the illusion that this armour is big, as do the&nbsp;shoulder guards, gauntlets, shin guards, and boots do.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lrUV7Coq10M/UHSWw8_KVFI/AAAAAAAAI_U/GCEXezpClX8/s1600/IMG_2137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lrUV7Coq10M/UHSWw8_KVFI/AAAAAAAAI_U/GCEXezpClX8/s200/IMG_2137.JPG" width="188" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r0BSkl3JY28/UHSXMbw8gTI/AAAAAAAAJAM/qdtvnbRc-RY/s1600/IMG_2147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r0BSkl3JY28/UHSXMbw8gTI/AAAAAAAAJAM/qdtvnbRc-RY/s200/IMG_2147.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iro7gZ78BBw/UHSW0ibUwhI/AAAAAAAAI_c/lyaUu9b3K-U/s1600/IMG_2138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iro7gZ78BBw/UHSW0ibUwhI/AAAAAAAAI_c/lyaUu9b3K-U/s200/IMG_2138.JPG" width="171" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That he comes with a Marty McFly-style hover board! &nbsp;You'd think he'd just rely on thrusters or jetskates<b> </b>but no, Tony Stark had to do it differently just for the hell of it.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tKxyJIugrM4/UHSW7hau6sI/AAAAAAAAI_s/NHTr-Rpswig/s1600/IMG_2141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tKxyJIugrM4/UHSW7hau6sI/AAAAAAAAI_s/NHTr-Rpswig/s320/IMG_2141.JPG" width="320" /></a>What's awesome is that the board itself has 3&nbsp;pegs you can slot into Iron Man's feet depending how wide you want his stance. &nbsp;And yes, the board can also balance with IM's weight on it! &nbsp;But if that's not your thing, you can have IM plug the board into his back (with a fourth, larger central peg) so that he just looks like he's going surfing and not actually doing it right there and then. &nbsp;And if that's still not your thing, the hoverboard can fire a missile. &nbsp;No triggers for this missile, though. &nbsp;It's spring loaded still, but you have to pull and release. &nbsp;But yes, it still flies pretty far...</div><div><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S_-kD-F2isg/UHSXIL2OcXI/AAAAAAAAJAE/eyRi2u_L7wA/s1600/IMG_2145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S_-kD-F2isg/UHSXIL2OcXI/AAAAAAAAJAE/eyRi2u_L7wA/s320/IMG_2145.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That they named him "Arctic Armor Iron Man." &nbsp;I don't see anything that makes him suited to the Arctic, unless they're saying that hoverboard is actually supposed to be a snow board. &nbsp;In which case, I'd say I'm more than a little stumped...And how is Arctic Armor IM and "Original" Avenger?<br /><br />Ok, I'm just griping. &nbsp;But I would've preferred another name like "Hover Assault iron Man," or even "Back to the Future Iron Man."<br /><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> His paint is a little faint, making him look pinkish instead of a solid red. &nbsp;The gold areas are actually well done and show up well painted over the red cast parts. &nbsp;But the red tends to look a little thin, especially on the shoulder guards and lower legs. &nbsp;It's as if they haven't improved on the paint mix and because previous IM figures had thick red coats on them, decided to go thin this time.<br /><br />All seven or so packs I saw had the same problem. &nbsp;But in their defence, I have to say they've got the gold down perfectly.</div><h4><u><span style="color: #134f5c;">Super Combat Captain America</span></u></h4><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cv-Qc7jqE7g/UHSXbeTPhbI/AAAAAAAAJAs/sWtrLAXhXf8/s1600/IMG_2150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cv-Qc7jqE7g/UHSXbeTPhbI/AAAAAAAAJAs/sWtrLAXhXf8/s320/IMG_2150.JPG" width="164" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> This is a great sculpt and probably the best WWII movie Cap. &nbsp;His only drawback is that he's a bit short, as I mentioned when I <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2011/06/captain-america-first-avenger-375-super.html"><u><b>first reviewed him</b></u> </a>some time back. &nbsp;He's a re-paint of the Captain America movie figure of the same name, as well as the Desert&nbsp;Battle&nbsp;Captain America.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-okUWRuUnOpg/UHSXeWQxiLI/AAAAAAAAJA0/J2ln4voCJ5g/s1600/IMG_2151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-okUWRuUnOpg/UHSXeWQxiLI/AAAAAAAAJA0/J2ln4voCJ5g/s320/IMG_2151.JPG" width="192" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> Cap's shiny blue upper torso. &nbsp;Don't get me wrong, I like me my shiny paints as much as the next guy but having your kevlar in shiny blue just looks weird. &nbsp;I like the hard cowl in that colour, because that's a lot more believable. &nbsp;Shiny shoulders I can also put down as shoulder guards that are made from a different material from his suit. &nbsp;But the upper torso kevlar looks nothing like it could be metal, so hence the weirdness in the paint scheme. &nbsp;To be fair though, the metallic blue also doesn't go very well with the more serious colours of the rest of his getup, and makes him look like he's wearing jeans.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lUZvhBbghgA/UHSXih5tW3I/AAAAAAAAJA8/Y30AaqT_00c/s1600/IMG_2153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lUZvhBbghgA/UHSXih5tW3I/AAAAAAAAJA8/Y30AaqT_00c/s320/IMG_2153.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The dull brown of his gloves, boots, belt and holster, the grey-white of his upper body, and the faded blue of his trousers. &nbsp;Gritty! &nbsp;Unfortunately it's spoiled by the fancy-schmancy shiny blue kevlar.<br /><b><br /></b><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span> </b>That he comes with his original<b>&nbsp;</b>gun, shield and holster.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike: </span></b>That he's missing his helmet! &nbsp;Both the original SC Cap and Besert Battle Cap come with a combat helmet. &nbsp;This guy actually is wearing one on the back of the box, but he doesn;t have it included in package! :(<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n_zgSSW9KT8/UHSXuTRakjI/AAAAAAAAJBk/FV_Eguz0ltU/s1600/IMG_2169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="171" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n_zgSSW9KT8/UHSXuTRakjI/AAAAAAAAJBk/FV_Eguz0ltU/s320/IMG_2169.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That he suffers from some poor paint apps. There's paint wear on his right cheek due to what looks like some flash that got onto his face and got painted over. &nbsp;There's also a scratch on top of his shiny cowl, and the line between his cowl and face is little sloppy. &nbsp;The rest of the figure is okay, but the sad thing is that I couldn't see these flaws because of the slightly hindered view you get in package. :/<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ru-hRzR0OsM/UHSXmLGil7I/AAAAAAAAJBM/nYJ5cUY3xHw/s1600/IMG_2155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ru-hRzR0OsM/UHSXmLGil7I/AAAAAAAAJBM/nYJ5cUY3xHw/s200/IMG_2155.JPG" width="180" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--vhjm2lz6UA/UHSXkeAjEhI/AAAAAAAAJBE/rytq7x3fRN8/s1600/IMG_2154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--vhjm2lz6UA/UHSXkeAjEhI/AAAAAAAAJBE/rytq7x3fRN8/s200/IMG_2154.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nyuI62ny0K4/UHSXnxf5ZjI/AAAAAAAAJBU/KQTTZUH4C5g/s1600/IMG_2156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nyuI62ny0K4/UHSXnxf5ZjI/AAAAAAAAJBU/KQTTZUH4C5g/s200/IMG_2156.JPG" width="180" /></a></div><br /></div><h4><u><span style="color: #783f04;">Hammer Smash Thor</span></u></h4><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jvmNsYsgVU4/UHSX0MRgOfI/AAAAAAAAJB0/6Gk05LRIQZ8/s1600/IMG_2159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jvmNsYsgVU4/UHSX0MRgOfI/AAAAAAAAJB0/6Gk05LRIQZ8/s320/IMG_2159.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Another great sculpt, though just almost every movie Thor has this body. &nbsp;But it's the great helmeted head and likeness that make this figure better than all the other versions of movie Thor. (<b><u><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2012/06/thor-mighty-avenger-375-hammer-smash.html">I reviewed the orginal figure here.</a></u></b>)<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rdxeO_n4tu4/UHSX35A4HpI/AAAAAAAAJB8/elFVOlrk8Os/s1600/IMG_2160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rdxeO_n4tu4/UHSX35A4HpI/AAAAAAAAJB8/elFVOlrk8Os/s320/IMG_2160.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> This is another for <i>A Game of Thrones/ Song of Ice and Fire</i> fans--Thor's got Baratheon Brown pants!!! &nbsp;At first I thought they were just flat black and used some shiny blue left over from Cap, mixed it so it's a little deeper, slapped it on his breast plate, bracers and knee pads and called it a day. &nbsp;I was wrong, because out of package Thor's pants (and leathered parts of his torso) are a nice, deep leather brown.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yISrLef62hw/UHSX_N356QI/AAAAAAAAJCM/mdqzmc6TUvA/s1600/IMG_2163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yISrLef62hw/UHSX_N356QI/AAAAAAAAJCM/mdqzmc6TUvA/s200/IMG_2163.JPG" width="150" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> The odd dark blue they used for his armour.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T7fDEicFUyo/UHSX60OdESI/AAAAAAAAJCE/KhMAczDTTY8/s1600/IMG_2162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T7fDEicFUyo/UHSX60OdESI/AAAAAAAAJCE/KhMAczDTTY8/s200/IMG_2162.JPG" width="125" /></a>&nbsp;Like Cap, it's also a little shiny and it completely distracts from the richness of the brown pants. &nbsp;They could've done his shiny bits in a dark gold and called him Jaime Lann...er..."Heir to the Throne Thor," yeah, that's it. ;P<br /><br /><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> Poor to average paint. &nbsp;There's some spillage from the silver of the helm onto his face and also behind onto his hair. &nbsp;But the main issue I feel, is the flatness of the paint scheme. &nbsp;His beard and hair are a flat straw colour, while his armour is either just silver or metallic blue. &nbsp;Even Mjolnir is flat, probably the&nbsp;flattest&nbsp;version out there.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OW9PcRNTpOc/UHSYBY0F2rI/AAAAAAAAJCU/d-yWmy8dPGo/s1600/IMG_2166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OW9PcRNTpOc/UHSYBY0F2rI/AAAAAAAAJCU/d-yWmy8dPGo/s200/IMG_2166.JPG" width="137" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1lP5P4h02pQ/UHSYFSAFVbI/AAAAAAAAJCk/nQcA_AetYXY/s1600/IMG_2168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1lP5P4h02pQ/UHSYFSAFVbI/AAAAAAAAJCk/nQcA_AetYXY/s200/IMG_2168.JPG" width="142" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iFWRGsbkVgs/UHSYDe6IEhI/AAAAAAAAJCc/0tWHhViGcGI/s1600/IMG_2167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iFWRGsbkVgs/UHSYDe6IEhI/AAAAAAAAJCc/0tWHhViGcGI/s200/IMG_2167.JPG" width="147" /></a></div><b><u><br /></u></b><b><u>RATINGS</u></b></div><div><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JoMppI26_wA/UHSWMEeOM-I/AAAAAAAAI98/1vL-nJOzqOw/s1600/IMG_2127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JoMppI26_wA/UHSWMEeOM-I/AAAAAAAAI98/1vL-nJOzqOw/s320/IMG_2127.JPG" width="271" /></a><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #38761d;">Aesthetics</span> - </b>This is a great set but is somewhat let down by paint issues. &nbsp;This is a problem especially if all the figures are repaints. &nbsp;While I personally love repaints and the delightful new colour combinations this set tries to pull off, somehow I think that they went on budget mode, resulting in some of the combos not quite coming off as planned. &nbsp;It's a good thing the sculpts used are some of the best each of the lines has to offer. &nbsp;It's even better that Iron Man is a new sculpt. &nbsp;Credit for that, but it's not a good thing when all the seven or eight sets available didn't have four figures with decent paint. :(</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2IhRTl8Y9Xo/UHSXQ5HDy4I/AAAAAAAAJAU/CHiyA9ompKk/s1600/IMG_2149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2IhRTl8Y9Xo/UHSXQ5HDy4I/AAAAAAAAJAU/CHiyA9ompKk/s320/IMG_2149.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Secret Strike Loki: 8.5/10</span></b> - Combo came out the best, shiny green on green on black pops!</div><div><br /><span style="color: red;"><b>Arctic Armor Iron Man: 8/10</b> </span>- Standard red and gold, but let down by poor red once again. &nbsp;Still a&nbsp;great looking sculpt!</div><div><br /><span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Super Combat Cpt America: 7/10</b></span> - Shimmery shine or faded jeans--Cap brought his 40s fashion sense to the new millenium.</div><div><br /><span style="color: #783f04;"><b>Hammer Smash Thor: 6.5/10</b> </span>- Thor just can't win. &nbsp;Shiny dark blue and dark brown don;t match just because they're both brown. :(</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bXikMU_ql9I/UHSWqJQhwqI/AAAAAAAAI_E/lAsvwWmnJlk/s1600/King+Loki+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bXikMU_ql9I/UHSWqJQhwqI/AAAAAAAAI_E/lAsvwWmnJlk/s320/King+Loki+Art.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #38761d;">Poseability</span> - </b>Each figure boasts at least the standard PoAs from their respective movie lines, and this is fantastic! &nbsp;Every multi-pack should be like this and not have one or two passengers or a single superstar poseable figure with the rest as duds. &nbsp;Get all of 'em figures to all be as poseable as each other and everyone wins, including the retailer, but especially the customer! ;)</div><div><br /><div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Secret Strike Loki: 8/10 </span></b>- Despite his hair, his swivel/hinge head is unobstructed. His cloak also barely gets in the way of his arms, while the rest of his PoAs are unhindered!<br /><br /></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oyeu5vsUYMg/UHSXYP66haI/AAAAAAAAJAk/T_t_uP6SFHc/s1600/Iron+Man+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oyeu5vsUYMg/UHSXYP66haI/AAAAAAAAJAk/T_t_uP6SFHc/s320/Iron+Man+Art.jpg" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Arctic Armor Iron Man: 8/10</span></b> - His joints are relatively loose, especially the wrists and ankles. &nbsp;His head is a swivel/hinge but is hindered beyond 45 degrees left and right. &nbsp;He can't look up too well but downwards is great. &nbsp;He's also got an extra swivel in the hinge/swivel "balls" he has in his ankles. &nbsp;These are like the joints in his legs/hips. &nbsp;While these are great and mean he can point/pivot or roll his foot side to side, it also means he can't do both at the same time.<br /><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JfN5crxZ-d0/UHSXwCSPPzI/AAAAAAAAJBs/WsOr5LK5i0s/s1600/Cap+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JfN5crxZ-d0/UHSXwCSPPzI/AAAAAAAAJBs/WsOr5LK5i0s/s320/Cap+Art.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original Super Combat Cap Articulation</td></tr></tbody></table><div><b><span style="color: #134f5c;">Super Combat Cpt America: 7.5/10</span></b> - For some reason his chest pivot has less range than the earlier versions I bought. &nbsp;His head is effectively a swivel with slight up and down movement.<br /><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #783f04;">Hammer Smash Thor: 7.5/10 </span></b>- Great swivel/hinge head like his half-brother but unlike Loki, his hip pads block his legs from hinging fully.</div><br /><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3_243mo15H0/UHSdYjlIWFI/AAAAAAAAJEI/CFW9mLhe7pA/s1600/HS+Thor+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="249" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3_243mo15H0/UHSdYjlIWFI/AAAAAAAAJEI/CFW9mLhe7pA/s320/HS+Thor+Art.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original Hammer Smash Thor Articulation</td></tr></tbody></table><div><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #38761d;">Fun</span> - </b>I like the idea of three heroes packed with one villain. &nbsp;That's a play situation right out of the box. &nbsp; &nbsp;Accessories are also key for play and each figure has at least one. &nbsp;New colour schemes are also fun to look at if staring at your figures is your thing. ;P</div><div><br /><div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Secret Strike Loki: 9/10</span></b> - An evil mastermind with a couple of throwing daggers and delusions of grandeur? &nbsp;Too bad he can't be more pompous without a sceptre or staff!<br /><br /></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-84OuQfLBhlU/UHSXrmwKfBI/AAAAAAAAJBc/D0btc6uvmaw/s1600/IMG_2157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-84OuQfLBhlU/UHSXrmwKfBI/AAAAAAAAJBc/D0btc6uvmaw/s320/IMG_2157.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Arctic Armor&nbsp;Iron Man: 9/10</span></b> - A new suit of armour with rockin' shoulder guards and clompity clomp boots? &nbsp;A bitchin' hoverboard from 2015? &nbsp; Does the fun ever end with Tony Stark?</div><div><br /><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b>Super Combat Cpt America: 7.5/10</b></span> - He's got a standard, non-gimmick shield which is very nice. &nbsp;A usable holster and handgun complete the fun. &nbsp;If only he could pose better. &nbsp;If only he dressed better! ;)<br /><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #783f04;">Hammer Smash Thor: 7/10 </span></b>- Still good fun but he inherits the PoA flaws from his previous release. &nbsp;He also comes with the same old Mjolnir. &nbsp;And mine's bent. &nbsp;That's not quite so fun. :/</div><br /><br /></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gwvmG6Ie2pY/UHSYJx4OSoI/AAAAAAAAJCs/Ugt5GVqQmkE/s1600/IMG_2172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gwvmG6Ie2pY/UHSYJx4OSoI/AAAAAAAAJCs/Ugt5GVqQmkE/s320/IMG_2172.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #38761d;">Value</span> - </b>Like I mentioned,<b> </b>each guy has at least one accessory. &nbsp;Loki's got his throwing daggers, Iron Man his hoverboard (yeah!!!), Cap has his gun and shiled, while Thor has Mjolnir. &nbsp;It's worth mentioning that the cloacks on both Loki and Thor have been glued into their pegs, though. &nbsp;But if you like 'em removable, I believe a little hairdryering will soften that glue right up.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZlW6YzjGCYU/UHSXD-ckGYI/AAAAAAAAI_8/Ve39f55Tpls/s1600/IMG_2144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZlW6YzjGCYU/UHSXD-ckGYI/AAAAAAAAI_8/Ve39f55Tpls/s320/IMG_2144.JPG" width="282" /></a>I got this 4-pack for S$69.95 (US$57). &nbsp;Works out to S$17.50 per figure and below single action figure retail price. &nbsp;that's par for the course as far as multi-packs go.</div><div><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fvXSL4eJDKc/UHSWYE3ytHI/AAAAAAAAI-U/t7ObGTjgFiY/s1600/IMG_2130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fvXSL4eJDKc/UHSWYE3ytHI/AAAAAAAAI-U/t7ObGTjgFiY/s320/IMG_2130.JPG" width="241" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Secret Strike Loki: 9/10</span></b> - He may not have his staff but this guy is so rare he's really worth getting without it. &nbsp;I don't think you can find the single-packed movie Loki for less than US$25-30 online. &nbsp;And there's no telling when they might re-use this buck again, if ever!<br /><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: red;">Arctic Armor&nbsp;Iron Man: 9/10</span></b> - A brand new sculpt and a great addition to your Stark Amoury. &nbsp;Throw in that "hoverboard" (I can't quite place if this is a new accessory, though it seems very familiar) and we have a winner.<br /><br /></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LWBGMLhT8_Q/UHSXAFW1a0I/AAAAAAAAI_0/q_2P71dL0gQ/s1600/IMG_2143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LWBGMLhT8_Q/UHSXAFW1a0I/AAAAAAAAI_0/q_2P71dL0gQ/s320/IMG_2143.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: #134f5c;">Super Combat Cpt America: 7/10</span></b> - You won't be getting this 4-pack for this guy or Thor, that's for sure. &nbsp;And despite being a very much liked sculpt, it suffers from a poor paint scheme and lacks a helmet.</div><div><br /><b><span style="color: #783f04;">Hammer Smash Thor: 7/10 </span></b>- While having the best Thor head of this scale and also having a non-standard colour scheme, he's the guy that least looks like a&nbsp;repaint. &nbsp;At least he still comes with Mjolnir, flat and slightly rusty as it looks.</div><br /><br /></div><div><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #38761d;">Overall (Individual Figs)</span></b><br /><b><br /></b><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lWts5EHX1Ss/UHSWPppUyNI/AAAAAAAAI-E/vmSDcS0o9mY/s1600/IMG_2128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lWts5EHX1Ss/UHSWPppUyNI/AAAAAAAAI-E/vmSDcS0o9mY/s320/IMG_2128.JPG" width="288" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Secret Strike Loki: 8.8/10</span></b></div><div><span style="color: red;"><b>Arctic Armor&nbsp;Iron Man: 8.5/10</b></span></div><div><b><span style="color: #134f5c;">Super Combat Cpt America: 7.25/10</span></b></div><div><b><span style="color: #7f6000;">Hammer Smash Thor: 7/10</span></b><br /><br /><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #38761d;">Overall Multi-Pack Rating: 8/10</span> - </b>This pack is a star. &nbsp;Not because it's a TRU Exclusive (<i>Star</i>buys--no, no, no...) but because the four figures are so damn shiny! &nbsp;Seriously, though, this pack is very worthy of the "Original Avengers" name. &nbsp;It's the perfect starter for your nieces and nephews who were too young when the individual superhero movies first came out but have come of age during this year's wave of Avengers popularity. &nbsp;It's also the perfect set for those of us who've missed out on any of the figures (Loki) and are hankering for a taste of a new Iron Man ahead of IM 3 (all of us bucket heads). &nbsp;Throw in a couple of repaints of great sculpts and you have a winner.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gp_4bsAq-z4/UHSXUwd3m2I/AAAAAAAAJAc/1cwB71H9ufY/s1600/IMG_2158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gp_4bsAq-z4/UHSXUwd3m2I/AAAAAAAAJAc/1cwB71H9ufY/s320/IMG_2158.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I deemed this set worthy to purchase simply because I wanted two of the four figures. &nbsp;It might take more or less to sway you. &nbsp;But if you can't get by having more than one of the same Cap or Thor buck, then perhaps you could split this with a buddy, or save the two figures for two of your favourite nephews, or even simply sell 'em off online. &nbsp;Whichever way you go, you can't really lose, not with the Original Avengers. &nbsp;(What a heroic ending. &nbsp;Athankyou! :P)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J0yl-4lejvc/UHSV8OWnHgI/AAAAAAAAI9U/fmb2fIvViFo/s1600/Failure+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J0yl-4lejvc/UHSV8OWnHgI/AAAAAAAAI9U/fmb2fIvViFo/s640/Failure+1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ueC8XBkMq60/UHSV-74lsSI/AAAAAAAAI9c/lnMIL_CuTNw/s1600/Failure+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ueC8XBkMq60/UHSV-74lsSI/AAAAAAAAI9c/lnMIL_CuTNw/s640/Failure+2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zi6Q6w6iYEI/UHSWByaUusI/AAAAAAAAI9k/fp4umOu2n1o/s1600/Failure+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zi6Q6w6iYEI/UHSWByaUusI/AAAAAAAAI9k/fp4umOu2n1o/s640/Failure+3.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GO3lESIPvts/UHSWFOTEI-I/AAAAAAAAI9s/TBUmTyoKnps/s1600/Failure+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GO3lESIPvts/UHSWFOTEI-I/AAAAAAAAI9s/TBUmTyoKnps/s640/Failure+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /></div></div>http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/10/the-avengers-original-avengers-375-4.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-7829255612365851268Sun, 30 Sep 2012 19:29:00 +00002012-10-01T03:29:19.276+08:006-inchAction Figure ComicsMarvel LegendsThe Amazing SpidermanThe LizardThe Amazing Spiderman Movie Series 6" Lizard<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gu8L0eTTJd4/UGiS_ZMyOUI/AAAAAAAAI1Y/s74uMLB8e9I/s1600/IMG_2075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gu8L0eTTJd4/UGiS_ZMyOUI/AAAAAAAAI1Y/s74uMLB8e9I/s320/IMG_2075.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>First up, apologies to the Rangerlord!--I saw this figure for the first time when I was on vacation in Malacca and had never seen before in Singapore. &nbsp;There was one him and Ultimate (Miles Morales) Spiderman for S$28 each, so I grabbed them both! &nbsp;At that price, I was thinking it was a steal compared to the Marvel Legends retail price of S$39.90 back home.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOqgi0TDXfE/UGiTEyA4NAI/AAAAAAAAI1g/fjasRZjlCKg/s1600/IMG_2076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOqgi0TDXfE/UGiTEyA4NAI/AAAAAAAAI1g/fjasRZjlCKg/s320/IMG_2076.JPG" width="240" /></a>The Rangerlord was game for Miles and I was so-so, so I handed it off to him for what I had paid.<br /><br />But of course, I then start seeing these everywhere retailing for S$24.90 in Singapore. &nbsp;I felt really bad that he had to pay a few extra bucks for them, but the price was too good to resist.<br /><br />So I picked up Miles.<br /><br />I also picked up movie series Spidey for just under S$20 at a Metro department store sale a few days later.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yyXeFwJ_a18/UGiTHzUvdxI/AAAAAAAAI1o/YKJhE9uaidk/s1600/IMG_2077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yyXeFwJ_a18/UGiTHzUvdxI/AAAAAAAAI1o/YKJhE9uaidk/s320/IMG_2077.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />The moral of the story? &nbsp;For every good deal you find, you're likely to make a bad one too. &nbsp;Of course, it's not entirely terrible paying a few more dollars in this case, but it was for someone else. &nbsp;I guess on my part it pays to be patient. &nbsp;Then again, you can end up being too patient and miss the boat altogether. (Memories of Marvel Universe Vision come to mind...)<br /><br />On to the subject in question: &nbsp;The Lizard!<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2vMaCOJK23M/UGiTQ2ERQPI/AAAAAAAAI14/QLB8QOrJX4s/s1600/IMG_2081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2vMaCOJK23M/UGiTQ2ERQPI/AAAAAAAAI14/QLB8QOrJX4s/s320/IMG_2081.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hxvJ1AQMoYM/UGiTMjJWgKI/AAAAAAAAI1w/raRqbPlwLbQ/s1600/IMG_2082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hxvJ1AQMoYM/UGiTMjJWgKI/AAAAAAAAI1w/raRqbPlwLbQ/s320/IMG_2082.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> I rarely start a review with a "dislike", but I have to say&nbsp;I actually really dislike the design of the character's head. &nbsp;The rest of his body is pretty awesome, but the head is too round and human-like for me. &nbsp;It's got something to do with the CG being a little under par during closeups. &nbsp;But this is a movie-related peeve, which unfortunately affects the the look of the toy. &nbsp;Having said that, the head is moulded perfectly, to the point that I still don't like it on the toy! ;P<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The size of the Lizard. &nbsp;He may be is the&nbsp;6" scale, but the guy stands at a whopping 8.25"&nbsp;to tower over Spidey!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vDAgg4IGLL8/UGiTbr0cqQI/AAAAAAAAI2Y/izV5b4i1UBI/s1600/IMG_2087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vDAgg4IGLL8/UGiTbr0cqQI/AAAAAAAAI2Y/izV5b4i1UBI/s200/IMG_2087.JPG" width="162" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G4R84qCj5Gs/UGiTYBRP0tI/AAAAAAAAI2I/0wAp7tjLl4E/s1600/IMG_2085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G4R84qCj5Gs/UGiTYBRP0tI/AAAAAAAAI2I/0wAp7tjLl4E/s200/IMG_2085.JPG" width="133" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q_I3c8BBzR4/UGiTZzJptpI/AAAAAAAAI2Q/RhI9MH8IUK0/s1600/IMG_2086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q_I3c8BBzR4/UGiTZzJptpI/AAAAAAAAI2Q/RhI9MH8IUK0/s200/IMG_2086.JPG" width="165" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The detail on this guy. &nbsp;I'm not just talking about the sculpt, which is pretty darn close to perfect for a human-like lizard, I'm also talking paint apps.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1bvobDj5gZU/UGiT9WqKrUI/AAAAAAAAI3Y/U7O6W0Pjnd8/s1600/IMG_2098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1bvobDj5gZU/UGiT9WqKrUI/AAAAAAAAI3Y/U7O6W0Pjnd8/s320/IMG_2098.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The base green-moulded plastic is just the right tone and it blends in nicely between the kaki painted-on highlights and deeper green used for shading and picking out the thicker parts of his hide. &nbsp;His eyes are painted really well, as are his white teeth and red tongue.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That they left his claws on both his hands and feet unpainted! &nbsp;Oh well...<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2riSCoBsfz4/UGiTwpXKTpI/AAAAAAAAI3A/lM03yIGBw6Q/s1600/IMG_2095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2riSCoBsfz4/UGiTwpXKTpI/AAAAAAAAI3A/lM03yIGBw6Q/s320/IMG_2095.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The sculpted detail on the skin! &nbsp;It's the very best feature of the Lizard--there's not an inch of him that isn't covered in scales, wrinkly skin, or muscle!<br /><br />His chest, torso, biceps, leg balls, inner thighs and hamstring area, as well as neck and shoulder balls all have wrinkly skin.<br /><br />The rest of his body is covered in squarish scales of all sizes, ranging from about a millimetre (like on the forearms, head, feet and tail) to a few millimetres wide (thighs, shins, calves, "heel", and spine.)<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gCw39O9AC8E/UGiT42HedPI/AAAAAAAAI3Q/4JH0X-wMYm8/s1600/IMG_2097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gCw39O9AC8E/UGiT42HedPI/AAAAAAAAI3Q/4JH0X-wMYm8/s320/IMG_2097.JPG" width="320" /></a>Lots of areas have a combo of both skin and scales, with some of these also having "human" muscle. &nbsp;Needless to say, the Lizard looks real darn good!<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> His articulation, of course! &nbsp;The back of his card boasts "super-articulated" and the figure delivers. &nbsp;Sporting some of the most up-to-date joints tailored for his unusual physique, the Lizard has "shoe" hinge/swivel ankles that have been adapted to his elongated foot, giving him the reverse "knee joint" on each leg.<br /><br />The guys also got a swivel/hinge atop a (giant!) neck swivel/hinge. &nbsp;Also, the Lizard has a large tail that is detached in the package. &nbsp;That, too, has swivel/hinge!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UB42TPtml7c/UGiT0SCVRnI/AAAAAAAAI3I/hiDSW0eOH5M/s1600/IMG_2096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UB42TPtml7c/UGiT0SCVRnI/AAAAAAAAI3I/hiDSW0eOH5M/s320/IMG_2096.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mo62PKReOhE/UGiTsd8PFcI/AAAAAAAAI24/hrx0w-YcBYk/s1600/IMG_2094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mo62PKReOhE/UGiTsd8PFcI/AAAAAAAAI24/hrx0w-YcBYk/s200/IMG_2094.JPG" width="200" /></a>There are downsides, unfortunately. &nbsp;He's got no hinges on his swivel wrists,&nbsp;and the large neck looks awkward when over-swivelled. &nbsp;Luckily, his head swivel can do that job, leaving the neck to move minimally--anything more than about 40 degrees either way makes him look like he had his head and neck chopped off and sewn on wrong.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--yc-2hJas7A/UGiTgDSRLII/AAAAAAAAI2g/jXOm06b_zrU/s1600/IMG_2090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--yc-2hJas7A/UGiTgDSRLII/AAAAAAAAI2g/jXOm06b_zrU/s200/IMG_2090.JPG" width="200" /></a>The other thing is that his tail and neck hinge have huge slits for the joint to move back and forth (or up and down for the tail.) &nbsp;And when the neck is fully back, the hinge slit is very visible above his collarbone. &nbsp;(See pic in package!) &nbsp;So too for the tail, but that faces downwards/backwards so it's not too jarring.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j_cp6th0JYI/UGiTnMnRGjI/AAAAAAAAI2w/GmejbThUSis/s1600/IMG_2093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j_cp6th0JYI/UGiTnMnRGjI/AAAAAAAAI2w/GmejbThUSis/s200/IMG_2093.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1s-Y6VLoidA/UGiTkf48dxI/AAAAAAAAI2o/Byz6UahshYA/s1600/IMG_2091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1s-Y6VLoidA/UGiTkf48dxI/AAAAAAAAI2o/Byz6UahshYA/s200/IMG_2091.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Like:</b> </span>That they thought up some accessories for a villain that uses none: enter his three lil' lizard buddies! They're made of soft plastic so their not too much of a danger if thrown in an eye. &nbsp;They're also well painted and have excellent sculpts! &nbsp;Leave one in the kitchen to surprise Mom or Sis and see how well it works! ;P<br /><br /><h3><u>RATINGS</u></h3><b><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Aesthetics: 9.75/10</span></b> - The Lizard is beautiful! (Women of the world, cringe with disgust! :P) &nbsp;Aside from the glaring chest slit, the Lizard is really quite marvellous to look at. &nbsp;He'd be perfect but for the afore-mentioned slits and the unpainted claws. &nbsp;But the later is easily remedied. &nbsp;The former, not quite so. &nbsp;But all in all a wonderfully rendered movie to toy action figure!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rBlZP5lHTUs/UGiUAsP01FI/AAAAAAAAI3g/4nizS-kWJSo/s1600/IMG_2103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rBlZP5lHTUs/UGiUAsP01FI/AAAAAAAAI3g/4nizS-kWJSo/s640/IMG_2103.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Poseability: 9/10</span></b> - I really love the idea of the giant neck hinge and swivel/hinge head combo. &nbsp;Combined with the excellent torso pivot, the Lizard can really bend backwards and hunch forward. &nbsp;The tail also has lots of range for movement. &nbsp;And the new ankle joints also are a joy both on 3.75" figures as well as on 6" scale one like the Lizard.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FtMqvVTFCPk/UGiUFPT1vlI/AAAAAAAAI3o/K62kv6XV38s/s1600/IMG_2107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FtMqvVTFCPk/UGiUFPT1vlI/AAAAAAAAI3o/K62kv6XV38s/s320/IMG_2107.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Curt here has got standard Marvel Legend articulation in his double jointed elbows and knees, though I do wish he also had wrist hinges. &nbsp;He loses most of his up down head movement because of the thickness of his neck, but thank goodness the neck itself makes up for it by being very flexible back to front.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QvvJAXDJrqQ/UGiUJ3JYrUI/AAAAAAAAI3w/IvO2qOz1otA/s1600/IMG_2110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QvvJAXDJrqQ/UGiUJ3JYrUI/AAAAAAAAI3w/IvO2qOz1otA/s320/IMG_2110.JPG" width="240" /></a>His other joints bend like they should and easily so, especially the leg/hip ball joints, so the Lizard action figure matches up to the Lizard character in this department! ;)<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ufQ7EUzPZvQ/UGiUO4CwGuI/AAAAAAAAI34/-bnyLVwsL8s/s1600/IMG_2111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ufQ7EUzPZvQ/UGiUO4CwGuI/AAAAAAAAI34/-bnyLVwsL8s/s320/IMG_2111.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Fun: 9/10 </span></b>- I had a great time posing this guy for photos as he looks great both in static poses as well as in action shots. &nbsp;But the latter is where he really shine because of his superb articulation. &nbsp;Heck, he was so good that I couldn't resist opening up Spiderman for a photo cameo!<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FCh3NuvIKrQ/UGiWPKsoOHI/AAAAAAAAI4A/1iBiH98Eves/s1600/Lizard+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FCh3NuvIKrQ/UGiWPKsoOHI/AAAAAAAAI4A/1iBiH98Eves/s320/Lizard+Art.jpg" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Value: 9/10</span></b> - It's hard to find action figures these days that have the bulk, the articulation, the PoAs, and the accessories that the Lizard has and at the S$24.90 (US$20) price he retails at. &nbsp;I don't regret paying a little more like I did for this guy. &nbsp;What I don't get is that he comes as he is with all the wonderful sculpting and paint, the three lizards, and a Heroscape-style figure stand for some S$15 less than a Marvel Legends figure.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0FKkhv4b320/UGiWSoSUEPI/AAAAAAAAI4I/SmxZelFPKkQ/s1600/Touche.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0FKkhv4b320/UGiWSoSUEPI/AAAAAAAAI4I/SmxZelFPKkQ/s400/Touche.jpg" width="300" /></a>I'm putting it down to the success the Amazing Spiderman had at the box office but I could be wrong. &nbsp;At this price, it's hard to resist any ol' Marvel Legends quality figure, especially an oversized one like the Lizard!<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Overall: 9.2/10 - I'd take and arm and a leg for this figure! (I know, the irony.)&nbsp;</span></b>&nbsp;- My initial reaction was one of revulsion--ugh, not another movie design gone awry. &nbsp;Not <i>this</i> Lizard again. &nbsp;But I noticed the PoAs, the lil' lizard buddies, the paint, the sculpt, and then the price. &nbsp;Truth is, I was originally willing to take his head off and find another head to give him a more comicbook-like look without losing his grittiness. &nbsp;But now that he's out of the package, I'm not quite so sure. &nbsp;He's a great figure and even if you ain't a movie Lizard fan, he'll definitely impress you if you get him. ;)http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/10/the-amazing-spiderman-movie-series-6.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-302763748475471224Tue, 18 Sep 2012 20:23:00 +00002012-09-19T04:23:25.062+08:00ConsSingapore Toy Game and Comic ConventionToy HaulThe Singapore Toys Games and Comic Convention 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><i><span style="color: red;">**First up, I have to apologize for this post going up so late, what with work, this Con, gaming and a family vacation all taking place, three quick weeks have just flown by. &nbsp;But no, I'm still alive, thanks for asking. &nbsp;And thanks for your patience too. &nbsp;Other things in life may be happening but, dare I say it, the toys do too! &nbsp;So from having cleared some backlog of Marvel Universe figures, I suddenly find myself with a whole bigger pile of stuff I want to open and review. &nbsp;It all started with this Con that took place on September 1st, that's some two and a half weeks ago now!**</span></i><br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z_B0YfZaFSg/UFiBVxRBOsI/AAAAAAAAIxc/QguDhG11Xtc/s1600/IMG_2039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z_B0YfZaFSg/UFiBVxRBOsI/AAAAAAAAIxc/QguDhG11Xtc/s320/IMG_2039.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Come to STGCC or Hulk will grab ya and drag ya there anyway!</td></tr></tbody></table>I was really looking forward to this years STGCC as it came right after a busy period at work for me and also because it was the first year it was going to be held at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre. &nbsp;for those of you who are unfamiliar with this neck of the Woods, MBS = luxury. &nbsp;It's not to say the previous location of Suntec City wasn't awesome, but kinda signalled that STGCC was moving on up.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xXOaEC5hLOs/UFh9ntrAVRI/AAAAAAAAIvc/z2YKujiyoY0/s1600/IMG_2013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xXOaEC5hLOs/UFh9ntrAVRI/AAAAAAAAIvc/z2YKujiyoY0/s320/IMG_2013.JPG" width="240" /></a>Day 1 was a doozy, because we'd planned to dress the son up as his fave Captain America and were looking forward to not having to carry him around since he can walk now. &nbsp;But we had a friend's wedding lunch to attend first. &nbsp;As it turned out, after we were done, Lil Cap was more than happy to carry around his shield, which I had tied to his backpack (which he loves carrying around for some reason.) &nbsp;So he looked awesome!<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Rjb2p29yh0/UFiBLimymII/AAAAAAAAIxM/QBwt1NsVk20/s1600/IMG_2036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Rjb2p29yh0/UFiBLimymII/AAAAAAAAIxM/QBwt1NsVk20/s320/IMG_2036.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"I hope they like my costume!"...says Daddy</td></tr></tbody></table>After quite a few photo request for Cutie Cap, the lil' guy pretty much ran out of gas. &nbsp;Oh, he did last about 45 minutes or so before he had to take a nap. &nbsp;A long one, at that.<br /><br />I forgot to mention that we were going to meet the Rangerlord and was bringing along the Justice League: Supergirl, Batgirl, and (later on) Green Lantern. Rangerlord was just the guy collecting the money for the photos. I kid. &nbsp;By the time Green Lantern arrived, Cap was so deep in sleep there wasn't any way for a female Justice league/Baby Cap team-up, so sorry there's no pic of them all together kickin' a$$ and taking names. &nbsp;Ah, well. We'll dress them up again soon...<br /><br />On to the Con itself, true believers!<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JBQUFEyfmZA/UFiALrcXwjI/AAAAAAAAIvs/BPxSls3JD74/s1600/2012-09-01+17.13.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JBQUFEyfmZA/UFiALrcXwjI/AAAAAAAAIvs/BPxSls3JD74/s320/2012-09-01+17.13.37.jpg" width="303" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Exclusives. I think this is the first year that the "western" or action figure toy vendors come up with their own exclusives--and it's very much a welcome move. &nbsp;The past few years since the Con began has seen the vinyl toymakers, artists, writers, etc. all come up with special items for STGCC. &nbsp;So it was nice to see toy distributors Falcon's Hanger produce a Thundercats 8" Mumm-ra as Lion-O Exclusive. &nbsp;While I didn't get one for myself, it was one of the few things I was excited to see. &nbsp;Too bad the figure wasn't made in the 6" scale that the 8-inchers were revamped to. &nbsp;<i>That </i>would've truly made the figure sought after (at least by me). &nbsp;I also didn't much fancy the S$69.90 price tag on Mumm-Ra/Lion-O. &nbsp;That's about two-and-a-half times what the regular Lion-O costs at retail. :(<br /><br />Also exclusive to the Con:<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8lrLDY74Y1Y/UFiBtOPncAI/AAAAAAAAIyE/XiU2zcGmLeA/s1600/IMG_2051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8lrLDY74Y1Y/UFiBtOPncAI/AAAAAAAAIyE/XiU2zcGmLeA/s200/IMG_2051.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PPGt9lUtsv4/UFiBof2OMXI/AAAAAAAAIx8/0j5w6JhI3xM/s1600/IMG_2047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PPGt9lUtsv4/UFiBof2OMXI/AAAAAAAAIx8/0j5w6JhI3xM/s320/IMG_2047.JPG" width="240" /></a>- Play Imaginative's 12" Super Alloy Batman, made mostly of die-cast parts. &nbsp;They also had a prototype Iron Man on display. &nbsp;Nice as they were, Bats was priced at some S$320, which was definitely too expensive for my blood. :(<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x6ECjLhhWCA/UFiB966gloI/AAAAAAAAIyc/DZg-bGlIYv4/s1600/IMG_2055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x6ECjLhhWCA/UFiB966gloI/AAAAAAAAIyc/DZg-bGlIYv4/s200/IMG_2055.JPG" width="200" /></a>- Hot Toys' Rescue Uniform Version Captain America, Lt. Jim Gordon, and Pirates of the Carribean Angelica. &nbsp;These were SDCC 2012 Exclusives first though. &nbsp;But it was nice too see them offered here.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The Hot Toys display. &nbsp;This one's become a regular feature at STGCC. &nbsp;And why not, since their home is a short flight away in Hong Kong? &nbsp;This year, Hot Toys had a Movie Avengers diorama as their main attraction amidst the rest of their pieces.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tT3ELIv06Y8/UFiAvqt7-yI/AAAAAAAAIwc/WBTj6EdlqF0/s1600/IMG_2023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tT3ELIv06Y8/UFiAvqt7-yI/AAAAAAAAIwc/WBTj6EdlqF0/s320/IMG_2023.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hulk looking picture-tiny..but huge next to 12" Cap!</td></tr></tbody></table><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yTYwZwSNymg/UFiBkFHGTmI/AAAAAAAAIx0/sW8h3sdevtU/s1600/IMG_2045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yTYwZwSNymg/UFiBkFHGTmI/AAAAAAAAIx0/sW8h3sdevtU/s200/IMG_2045.JPG" width="200" /></a>Boy, does that Hulk look huge or what? &nbsp;I would be all over it except for the S$320 (or thereabouts) price tag. &nbsp;I can't afford that, even if Hulk has hidden elbow and head articulation points beneath his "skin"!<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Cosplayers/dressups! &nbsp;Besides tiny Captain America, young Supergirl, lil' Batgirl, and mini Green Lantern, there were loads of people suited up!<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cp2A3otQSNc/UFiAR1XDszI/AAAAAAAAIv0/SlWFR34S0yE/s1600/IMG_2014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cp2A3otQSNc/UFiAR1XDszI/AAAAAAAAIv0/SlWFR34S0yE/s320/IMG_2014.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's not Iron Man--it's a giant Lego display by the 501st! ;P</td></tr></tbody></table>Another year, another upgrade for our Iron Man. &nbsp;His suit looked a lot more "advanced" this year, with added armour plating especially to the back. &nbsp;(Last year looked all padding.) &nbsp;There was a Movie Bane walking around in a self made costume--fortunately I didn't catch him or he might have broken me or something. :/<br /><br />There were also a squad of Halo guys, and of course, the 501st Legion dressed up in their Star Wars gear!<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M4VILhMLo6Q/UFiAXcNmU3I/AAAAAAAAIv8/5C9cfp6MVRs/s1600/IMG_2015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M4VILhMLo6Q/UFiAXcNmU3I/AAAAAAAAIv8/5C9cfp6MVRs/s320/IMG_2015.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More 501st Lego!</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Great deals. &nbsp;These didn't seem so numerous compared to past years--but then again, I wasn't able to stay till the very last hour of the Con where most of the vendors start slashing prices. &nbsp;Though I have to say that this year, a lot of them seemed less likely to do so. &nbsp;What I did see was that they did bring in exclusive stuff from either from other Cons (Like Toyrealm and their SDCC 2012 MU Masters of Evil 3-pk and The Dark Knight Rises SDCC 2012&nbsp;DCUC Batman) or hard to find figures from retails waves (Invasion Toys with the latest Marvel Universe shortpacked figures like Ultimate Spiderman.)<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1faVueRn2DI/UFiAdqPz0TI/AAAAAAAAIwE/DD4N4zgiOiI/s1600/IMG_2016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1faVueRn2DI/UFiAdqPz0TI/AAAAAAAAIwE/DD4N4zgiOiI/s320/IMG_2016.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All this Lego and no where to buy it!</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Met one of my readers, Dylan (hope I spelled your name right.) &nbsp;It's always a pleasure to meet someone who reads reviews on Chase Variant. &nbsp;Dylan was especially friendly and told me he had bought a lot of stuff after reading my reviews. &nbsp;Now, I always find that odd and I feel rather apologetic. &nbsp;After all, you're thanking me for helping you spend hard earned money! &nbsp;:P &nbsp;I do appreciate that you mean it as a compliment, D-Dog, so thanks and thanks for reading despite my somewhat inconsistent posting in recent months.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xGMIFCh9pjI/UFiAj5pw7mI/AAAAAAAAIwM/6u_XGOwgPoU/s1600/IMG_2018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xGMIFCh9pjI/UFiAj5pw7mI/AAAAAAAAIwM/6u_XGOwgPoU/s320/IMG_2018.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More 501st Lego filler--this time it's the Battle of Helms Deep!</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> I wished they had more action figure exclusives! &nbsp;Hot Toys and all the other mega-sized action figures are wonderful, but 3.75" and 6" figure exclusives would be in greater demand, methinks. I'm thinking back a few years when we got Marvel Universe Ice Cap and the Invaders 4-pack Box, along with GI Joe Destro all in the same year. &nbsp;And that was just for 3.75"-scale figures from the two lines.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_YVZrHViY5U/UFiBQZuBPSI/AAAAAAAAIxU/z5nBfdr3Sxw/s1600/IMG_2038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_YVZrHViY5U/UFiBQZuBPSI/AAAAAAAAIxU/z5nBfdr3Sxw/s320/IMG_2038.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's <i>no</i>&nbsp;contest? Are you sure it's not down there?</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> I wished they had more inclusion of "Western" community! &nbsp;Don't get me wrong, I love the fact they got comic book artists and writers down but that's just a part of what the Con could be.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JU_wspCbEZM/UFiBesNQaAI/AAAAAAAAIxs/hUzT4SQ9A1s/s1600/IMG_2042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JU_wspCbEZM/UFiBesNQaAI/AAAAAAAAIxs/hUzT4SQ9A1s/s320/IMG_2042.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Posing contest: Gotta love that expression</td></tr></tbody></table>By that I mean costume contests (which the cosplayers have), sneak previews/photos of superhero/sci-fi/fantasy movies to come, sneak previews of toys, more interactive booths with chances for photo ops, game and product demos. &nbsp;I guess what felt missing this year was the interaction and feeling like part of the Con.<br /><h4><u><b><span style="color: #38761d;">The Haul (Sorta)</span></b></u></h4>So I guess I had to buy <i>something</i>. &nbsp;To be honest I didn't see anything that I really had to buy because I wanted it and it was a great deal. &nbsp;There were good deals, most of which I figured I wouldn't springing for:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mluvlfm-G2I/UFjUZ_e3zmI/AAAAAAAAIzs/naI0K9ME2Jg/s1600/IMG_2061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mluvlfm-G2I/UFjUZ_e3zmI/AAAAAAAAIzs/naI0K9ME2Jg/s320/IMG_2061.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><b><span style="color: red;">Movie Fantastic Four Light-Up Human Torch - S$15:</span></b> He's got a good likeness to Chris Evans--my first thought was to pilfer the head and modify it for my Marvel Legends movie Cap. &nbsp;Then I saw the parking meter, post box, and partial sidewalk--all "melted" to varying degrees by the Human Torch's sudden Flame-On but still useful for a diorama/display. &nbsp;A steal at that price!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KcL7BbmPvW4/UFjV3dh7uWI/AAAAAAAAI0E/LhncqR9E5mQ/s1600/IMG_2065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KcL7BbmPvW4/UFjV3dh7uWI/AAAAAAAAI0E/LhncqR9E5mQ/s320/IMG_2065.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Masters of the Universe Classics Hurricane Hordak - S$35:</span></b> &nbsp;Ooh, all that shiny gold! &nbsp;I must've been a D&amp;D dwarf in my previous life. &nbsp;Truth is, he's one of my favourite villains from when I had old MOTU figures--his one hand with switchable and spinnable weapons was just too kickass! &nbsp;I don;t think this one spins his weapons but they're still switchable. &nbsp;And did I mention he's gold shiny gold armour? &nbsp;Heheh.<br /><b><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--kV2rc3FPO4/UFjWsbbGxWI/AAAAAAAAI0M/BSwxbDIKTlk/s1600/IMG_2068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--kV2rc3FPO4/UFjWsbbGxWI/AAAAAAAAI0M/BSwxbDIKTlk/s320/IMG_2068.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">DC Direct Brightest Day Deadman - S$15:</span></b> Comes with White Lantern, alternate Boston Brand human head, and Deadman mask. &nbsp;It's an awesomely sculpted and painted figure, though I suspect he's not a lot of people's fave for the right Deadman build, which is lanky and tall. That's ok for me though, because again, I was looking at the accessories and the parts I could possibly use for customs. &nbsp;I know, I'm a murderous maniac who's started killing my toys. &nbsp;But trust me, once you do your first victim, everything becomes easier and you'll start to look at your action figures differently! &nbsp;Mwahahaha!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2OiXApTIeGk/UFjVEAoMZXI/AAAAAAAAIz0/eDZxo5MtSWQ/s1600/IMG_2057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2OiXApTIeGk/UFjVEAoMZXI/AAAAAAAAIz0/eDZxo5MtSWQ/s320/IMG_2057.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Marvel Universe San Diego Comic Con 2012 Masters of Evil 3-Pack - S$85:</span></b> &nbsp;This one comes from good ol' Toyrealm and its owner Vincent, who was the only one who brought it in. Orginally priced at S$95, he slashed $10 off the price. &nbsp;Though still pricey, I don't think I'll ever see this 3-pack again unless I go online, by which time, after shipping, the price would be more or less the same. &nbsp;The way I see it, S$28.34 per figure for a hard-to-get exclusive is completely worth it!<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rzr8lJ0VNtQ/UFiA54plUGI/AAAAAAAAIws/aSZ0gD3SrTI/s1600/IMG_2025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rzr8lJ0VNtQ/UFiA54plUGI/AAAAAAAAIws/aSZ0gD3SrTI/s320/IMG_2025.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hot Toys!</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Overall Con Experience - Not bad. </span></b>&nbsp;But I'd like to see STGCC grow somehow. &nbsp;I don't mean grow bigger in number of attendees necessarily, but rather a change in perhaps more events for the action figure crowd like an action figure custom contest or some "how to customize your figures/toys" clinics/workshops.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jMcqP53K2l4/UFiA0IEdv5I/AAAAAAAAIwk/uuOemjMBDKE/s1600/IMG_2024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jMcqP53K2l4/UFiA0IEdv5I/AAAAAAAAIwk/uuOemjMBDKE/s200/IMG_2024.JPG" width="150" /></a>Getting stores to produce their own exclusives is a step in the right direction, but wouldn't it be amazing if almost every vendor has an exclusive? &nbsp;It doesn't have to be anything brand new. &nbsp;Just look at Con Exclusive GI Joes: most of 'em are kitbashed from existing parts, have new paints slapped on 'em, and a Con logo somewhere or other. &nbsp;Some are even just repaints. &nbsp;Falcon's Hangar Mumm-Ra-Lion-O is a great example. &nbsp;And despite the steep price and not buying the figure, I commend their effort for doing something unique, at least. &nbsp;If more vendor would do this, there would certainly lots of people biting if they did. &nbsp;I know I would. &nbsp;:)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ysj-LlEp-P0/UFiA94vJGDI/AAAAAAAAIw0/GiGHR1jq9lg/s1600/IMG_2028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ysj-LlEp-P0/UFiA94vJGDI/AAAAAAAAIw0/GiGHR1jq9lg/s200/IMG_2028.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AVQSOSgRvrQ/UFiBaE9dp_I/AAAAAAAAIxk/smaNhbYQUFU/s1600/IMG_2041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AVQSOSgRvrQ/UFiBaE9dp_I/AAAAAAAAIxk/smaNhbYQUFU/s200/IMG_2041.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3biO_pP_uzo/UFiCCbA2oKI/AAAAAAAAIyk/nFfWOZox2jk/s1600/IMG_2056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3biO_pP_uzo/UFiCCbA2oKI/AAAAAAAAIyk/nFfWOZox2jk/s200/IMG_2056.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ltvpRbrKMdg/UFiB4X23HzI/AAAAAAAAIyU/XYetSbZzxDA/s1600/IMG_2052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ltvpRbrKMdg/UFiB4X23HzI/AAAAAAAAIyU/XYetSbZzxDA/s320/IMG_2052.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hot Toys 18" Movie Batman</td></tr></tbody></table>As far as the "Games" part of the Con goes, it would be fantastic to see some non-video game based competitions. &nbsp;Bring on the CCG (Collector's Card Game) tournaments like Magic and whatever else the kids play nowadays (I lost track at Pokemon and Yugi-Oh...), the boardgames tournaments, the miniature game tournaments, and the role-playing games! &nbsp;There's a huge market for these in Singapore and in the region and I don't think the "G" in STGCC will reach its full potential till these are part of the Con.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dut2u0dFZ0w/UFiBGeaQZCI/AAAAAAAAIxE/2iebXFZhZ50/s1600/IMG_2035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dut2u0dFZ0w/UFiBGeaQZCI/AAAAAAAAIxE/2iebXFZhZ50/s320/IMG_2035.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Oh boy, oh boy I can't wait for next year!"</td></tr></tbody></table>And comics-wise, we're missing Kinokuniya from the mix--they had a great Heroclix Green Lantern freebie last year and always have a great (probably the best here) selection of comics. &nbsp;They were missing this year, though, as was the National Library (I think? &nbsp;Didn't see them this time). &nbsp;Bring in more comics vendors, I say. &nbsp;G&amp;B Comics has done a splendid job of flying the flag at STGCC since the beginning but with Harris Planerds closing down here, they'll be the only ones left with comics next year. &nbsp;If they pulled out altogether that would be one less "C" in the Con. &nbsp;:(<br /><br />Those, I suppose, are the challenges for next year and the years beyond. &nbsp;I'm glad there were more attendees then ever (35,000 over 2 days) but I'd love to see this number grow and STGCC expand to 3 days or more to accommodate the number, as well as all the potentially new activities and exclusives!http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-singapore-toys-games-and-comic.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-2383403135252456283Sat, 25 Aug 2012 19:46:00 +00002012-08-26T03:46:10.522+08:003.75-inchAction Figure ComicsBeta Ray BillMarvel UniverseThorMarvel Universe 3.75" Series 4 Beta Ray Bill (010)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RgAb-jmGQBY/UDkaE_UOEzI/AAAAAAAAIqg/C_EauKjCsfI/s1600/IMG_1884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RgAb-jmGQBY/UDkaE_UOEzI/AAAAAAAAIqg/C_EauKjCsfI/s320/IMG_1884.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uv9GO3NaXys/UDkaKHvKnPI/AAAAAAAAIqo/GGqIFrUuVAw/s1600/IMG_1885.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uv9GO3NaXys/UDkaKHvKnPI/AAAAAAAAIqo/GGqIFrUuVAw/s200/IMG_1885.JPG" width="150" /></a>Weeks after I get this guy, can you believe he's become a peg-warmer? &nbsp;In these parts, there's so much of ol' BRB on the racks that the 5 Kraven, 3 Astonishing Beast, 2 Hulk and numerous Jubilee look like they are hot items. &nbsp;Well, I guess they are, depending on where you live, but I jumped at the chance to get him at full retail thinking that he'd be hard to find.<br /><br />Given that he's a cult favourite and that he has a working jaw makes him hard to resist. &nbsp;But never did I think the cases that came over to Singapore would have so many Beta Rays that he'd be left on the shelves like an unwanted knockoff.<br /><br />Clearly, he isn't. &nbsp;I was always curious about the character.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1W3TyoWc_dg/UDkaNBxz12I/AAAAAAAAIqw/afu7vrytegw/s1600/IMG_1886.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1W3TyoWc_dg/UDkaNBxz12I/AAAAAAAAIqw/afu7vrytegw/s400/IMG_1886.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Well, after I got over my "meh, this guy is &nbsp;horse dude in Thor's armour" phase, anyway. (I was just 6 year-old or something.) &nbsp;I'd did find out from the time I got BRB that his story is fleshed out in "The Ballad of Beta Ray Bill" but I have yet to locate a physical copy so I'll still have to wait to find out more about him. &nbsp;The action figure though? &nbsp;I can tell you about him right now! ;)<br /><br /><br /><a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eobRJF9YguM/UDkaQ1CxV8I/AAAAAAAAIq4/U_OY4C5nhrk/s1600/IMG_1963.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eobRJF9YguM/UDkaQ1CxV8I/AAAAAAAAIq4/U_OY4C5nhrk/s320/IMG_1963.JPG" width="240" /></a><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Like:</b></span> The working jaw/mouth! &nbsp;Seriously, it's awesome! &nbsp;I think this is a first for Marvel Universe figures, so I'm glad they put in the extra effort/resources to get it done. &nbsp;His head sculpt is new and they could have left it at that but didn't. &nbsp;Great job here, Hasbro!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fhHM0A7exVc/UDkbbpqdP1I/AAAAAAAAItw/jAQjHl4pW6Q/s1600/IMG_2008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fhHM0A7exVc/UDkbbpqdP1I/AAAAAAAAItw/jAQjHl4pW6Q/s320/IMG_2008.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The great head sculpt and paint! &nbsp;He's got stern look moulded into his skeleton horse head (though Korbinites will say he's actually smiling or something), with very nicely detailed cheekbones and teeth. &nbsp; &nbsp;Even&nbsp;his "nostrils" above his upper lip have been moulded in. &nbsp;These even have some pink wash in them to match the gums and inside of his mouth.<br /><br />The wings on his helmet are separately sculpted and glued onto his head. &nbsp;They're nice and soft and match the colour of the silver they used for his helmet.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ox1wxKp8Ngs/UDkanpxUcXI/AAAAAAAAIr4/TjV9tCjRnd8/s1600/IMG_1987.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ox1wxKp8Ngs/UDkanpxUcXI/AAAAAAAAIr4/TjV9tCjRnd8/s200/IMG_1987.JPG" width="165" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ih4ut7zMGIs/UDkah_yEu5I/AAAAAAAAIrg/TwVaIL4OWfY/s1600/IMG_1984.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ih4ut7zMGIs/UDkah_yEu5I/AAAAAAAAIrg/TwVaIL4OWfY/s200/IMG_1984.JPG" width="148" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-__E3PLdW9k8/UDkapaJJLoI/AAAAAAAAIsA/iJI5rgOsqEg/s1600/IMG_1988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-__E3PLdW9k8/UDkapaJJLoI/AAAAAAAAIsA/iJI5rgOsqEg/s200/IMG_1988.JPG" width="192" /></a></div><br />His eyes have a black base with white "pupils", while his teeth are also well picked out in white.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HsF9HcfMwyE/UDkaU-mxadI/AAAAAAAAIrA/JBAy1VeoCn4/s1600/IMG_1964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HsF9HcfMwyE/UDkaU-mxadI/AAAAAAAAIrA/JBAy1VeoCn4/s320/IMG_1964.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I like that they aren't all neat-looking as it adds to the alien-ness of the guy. &nbsp;Overall the paint on his head is clean, though the close-ups can really enhance the paint flaws. &nbsp;BRB actually has one of the more consistently painted heads I've seen in the line.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4kalB-VRXG8/UDka4hRn2NI/AAAAAAAAIso/l9lLbMZzf1Q/s1600/IMG_1994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4kalB-VRXG8/UDka4hRn2NI/AAAAAAAAIso/l9lLbMZzf1Q/s200/IMG_1994.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That because of the working mouth, the rear clip that keeps the lower jaw in place block the up/down movement of the head. &nbsp;It's a pity because the back of Bill's head is free from obstruction and could otherwise give full ball-joint movement. &nbsp;ah well, you can't win 'em all. :/<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--9C5QahlKQ0/UDkalrev0kI/AAAAAAAAIrw/HEroNGVvy6M/s1600/IMG_1986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--9C5QahlKQ0/UDkalrev0kI/AAAAAAAAIrw/HEroNGVvy6M/s200/IMG_1986.JPG" width="165" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e5hPX-a9VHU/UDkajhkSZkI/AAAAAAAAIro/i2ksW5SMcAU/s1600/IMG_1985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e5hPX-a9VHU/UDkajhkSZkI/AAAAAAAAIro/i2ksW5SMcAU/s200/IMG_1985.JPG" width="127" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YPzC_44qQjc/UDkarfZt46I/AAAAAAAAIsI/WgZfxOsuMHI/s1600/IMG_1989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YPzC_44qQjc/UDkarfZt46I/AAAAAAAAIsI/WgZfxOsuMHI/s200/IMG_1989.JPG" width="172" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> His new new-age legs! &nbsp;These are new sculpts, with the thigh cut nearer the knee to&nbsp;accommodate&nbsp;the thigh-high "pre-boots." &nbsp;Lol. &nbsp;I'm referring to his thigh armour pads, if you will. &nbsp;Those are sculpted as part of the upper thigh, so it's nice and solid. &nbsp;The lower thigh has banded armour detailed worked into it, even though it could've been plain and we could've gotten by. &nbsp;But again, A+ for effort on Hasrbo's part.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IVJYXygxBlQ/UDkaymsruLI/AAAAAAAAIsY/6QtBf03jkpw/s1600/IMG_1992.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IVJYXygxBlQ/UDkaymsruLI/AAAAAAAAIsY/6QtBf03jkpw/s320/IMG_1992.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qfyJ_AmkpbM/UDka7rUcTZI/AAAAAAAAIsw/p72t2VISTZM/s1600/IMG_1995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qfyJ_AmkpbM/UDka7rUcTZI/AAAAAAAAIsw/p72t2VISTZM/s320/IMG_1995.JPG" width="168" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> His fancy-schmancy knee-high boots! &nbsp;These are very cleverly done. &nbsp;Newly sculpted lower legs are topped by regular knee joint pieces. &nbsp;But they've glued on specially moulded, form-fitted soft plastic knee pads. &nbsp;End it off with newly moulded feet and the end result is pretty comic book accurate as far as I can tell. :)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DQjMzOkaPE0/UDkaYfvx8xI/AAAAAAAAIrI/GqktOqD--Cs/s1600/IMG_1965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DQjMzOkaPE0/UDkaYfvx8xI/AAAAAAAAIrI/GqktOqD--Cs/s200/IMG_1965.JPG" width="150" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The moulded gold plastic they used from Stormbreaker, his belt (separately moulded piece) and his boots. &nbsp;It's shiny enough and doesn't look plasticky. &nbsp;And because it isn't painted it looks really smooth and burnished. &nbsp;I really like it!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eLxNTemUDBQ/UDkbe2iyHoI/AAAAAAAAIt4/WTk-4P0KGuI/s1600/Beta+Ray+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eLxNTemUDBQ/UDkbe2iyHoI/AAAAAAAAIt4/WTk-4P0KGuI/s320/Beta+Ray+Art.jpg" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> His articulation. &nbsp;He's got 26 points by my count, which includes a chest pivot and a waist swivel. &nbsp;Them's the benefits of sharing a body with classic Thor! ;) &nbsp;But more impressively, he's got thigh cuts as well as the aforementioned hinge jaw. &nbsp;All the better to jabber with! Or bite. &nbsp;That works too. :P<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O5Dnc_U4AWY/UDkau4cBCkI/AAAAAAAAIsQ/Eb3dR6qFvmI/s1600/IMG_1990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O5Dnc_U4AWY/UDkau4cBCkI/AAAAAAAAIsQ/Eb3dR6qFvmI/s200/IMG_1990.JPG" width="180" /></a>A point about the jaw: if you find one that's misaligned in package, it's probably because it's a snap-on hinge joint that's gotten a little loose. &nbsp;What would help would be to close his mouth and snap the jaw back in properly. &nbsp;That's all you need to do it shift his&nbsp;lower&nbsp;jaw back in place. :)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xKo4vvOIZ0Q/UDkaf3z5vgI/AAAAAAAAIrY/V1ic52mh2xY/s1600/IMG_1983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xKo4vvOIZ0Q/UDkaf3z5vgI/AAAAAAAAIrY/V1ic52mh2xY/s320/IMG_1983.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> &nbsp;This is more of an "I'm not so sure" but it's that his shoulder guards are sculpted as part of his cape. &nbsp;That means when you remove his cape, the guards come off too. &nbsp;The upside is that you have shoulder guards which sit very nice and high above his shoulders as they should. &nbsp;I guess this must have been the cheapest way to do it but then again, this is a small price to pay for new legs, a new head, and a working jaw. &nbsp;Oh and they did sculpt the patterns on hi shoulder guards so it isn't all a cheapo job, if at all.<br /><br /><br /><h3>RATINGS</h3><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LU4x4xNTmls/UDka2LuTRQI/AAAAAAAAIsg/T_MiAKUaiqM/s1600/IMG_1993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LU4x4xNTmls/UDka2LuTRQI/AAAAAAAAIsg/T_MiAKUaiqM/s320/IMG_1993.JPG" width="304" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Aesthetics: 9/10</span></b> - This guy looks great, even if you don't know who he is! &nbsp;Granted, he may look like a Thor ripoff to some, but Thor doesn't even dress this way any more. &nbsp;His alien head, futuristic go-go boots, some blue torso lines and circles, and his white gloves may be all that separate him from classic Thor, but you won't notice these unless you put them side by side. &nbsp;But the fact his that he's comic book accurate and has really great new sculpts for his head and legs. &nbsp;BRB will look great next to classic Thor, modern Thor, or even movie Thor--he's just different enough to make him stand out.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wDwVuUBq6Go/UDkacDWWl8I/AAAAAAAAIrQ/PVfSwqPFgb8/s1600/IMG_1978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wDwVuUBq6Go/UDkacDWWl8I/AAAAAAAAIrQ/PVfSwqPFgb8/s320/IMG_1978.JPG" width="308" /></a><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Poseability: 9/10</span></b> - Besides the back jaw clip blocking most of the up and down movement, Beta Ray is very much unobstructed when it comes to his PoAs. &nbsp;His cape does get in the way sometimes, but that can be adjusted or removed completely. &nbsp; BRB can almost squat because of the double-hinged knees and the thigh swivels, but he's missing the new hinge/swivel "shoe" ankles, which would've allowed that. &nbsp;He can still half-squat, so that's something.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xVTngaOM_tU/UDkbLTn4WqI/AAAAAAAAItQ/rIkhQeh3SWs/s1600/IMG_2004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xVTngaOM_tU/UDkbLTn4WqI/AAAAAAAAItQ/rIkhQeh3SWs/s320/IMG_2004.JPG" width="320" /></a>He also does have that fabulous hinge jaw, which adds such a variety of looks to the figure. &nbsp;He can be talking, laughing, taking a jaw-breaking blow, biting, issuing a battle cry--you name it. &nbsp;It's a pity that his head can't fully tilt up, otherwise it would add even more to his expressiveness.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Fun: 9/10</span></b> - A guy who can half-squat, and open his mouth in a battle cry can also look like a guy taking a triumphant dump.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uR6zTpi6iaU/UDkbXoICrfI/AAAAAAAAIto/PQvmz5H6VVU/s1600/IMG_2007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uR6zTpi6iaU/UDkbXoICrfI/AAAAAAAAIto/PQvmz5H6VVU/s320/IMG_2007.JPG" width="240" /></a>With 26 PoAs, having defeated Thor even before he was given Stormbreaker, and that jabber-jaw, he's more than interesting enough that you'd want him next to Thor or among your Asgardian pantheon display or duking it out with Thor or his enemies.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2bog6SOpQyc/UDkbTwaoeoI/AAAAAAAAItg/e5tQ03bOdqo/s1600/IMG_2006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2bog6SOpQyc/UDkbTwaoeoI/AAAAAAAAItg/e5tQ03bOdqo/s320/IMG_2006.JPG" width="320" /></a>Beta Ray's uniform can be a great excuse for classic Thor comedy, but is also a reminder that there's more than just one person out there who is worthy of the God of Thunder's powers. &nbsp;wouldn't it be awesome if he made it into Thor 2? ;)<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Value: 8/10</span></b> - A new head, new legs, a new joint (jaw), a new cape, and a new hammer. &nbsp;Now that's great value.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VldFIfHBx2Q/UDkbPVj0UoI/AAAAAAAAItY/AT_BRs_Eg0I/s1600/IMG_2005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VldFIfHBx2Q/UDkbPVj0UoI/AAAAAAAAItY/AT_BRs_Eg0I/s320/IMG_2005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>If BRB had come with the old school figure stand and Fury/H.A.M.M.E.R. File, he'd be bumped up a point. But as is, he's already value for money. &nbsp;I'm also thinking that the shorter lower thigh will come in handy when paired with regular upper thighs for those who want to do customs of shorter figures.<br /><br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Overall: 8.8/10 - It's a Keeper! (And you'd almost take and arm or leg [non-plastic] for it!)</span></b> - The only reason there are zounds of him on the pegs here is most probably because he's not well-known enough.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MQI-1grE260/UDka_dz_YBI/AAAAAAAAIs4/DUsiveFgrZE/s1600/IMG_1996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MQI-1grE260/UDka_dz_YBI/AAAAAAAAIs4/DUsiveFgrZE/s320/IMG_1996.JPG" width="320" /></a>As great a figure as he is, collectors and fans would probably just get the one. &nbsp;Some would get two--one to open and one to keep in package--but the kids would ignore him.<br /><br />Let's hope he makes an appearance in an animated series or a movie and we'll see this figure disappear soon enough. &nbsp;Then again, Hasbro does a great job marketing and moving Marvel Universe really well in these parts, so he may be here today, gone tomorrow. &nbsp;So I'll say this--get him if you can! &nbsp;he's obviously important enough that they gave him a spot in the line and bothered to cook up some new parts for him! ;)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CURr6TBT074/UDkbHjqiCkI/AAAAAAAAItI/ftcS1ElqDK0/s1600/IMG_1999.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CURr6TBT074/UDkbHjqiCkI/AAAAAAAAItI/ftcS1ElqDK0/s640/IMG_1999.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bzH3rR-QRZA/UDkbDgXHw0I/AAAAAAAAItA/I3g5QrHVGWI/s1600/IMG_1998.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bzH3rR-QRZA/UDkbDgXHw0I/AAAAAAAAItA/I3g5QrHVGWI/s640/IMG_1998.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p-cl2mNZRIE/UDkbh2wfx2I/AAAAAAAAIuA/efbIxPbMtF0/s1600/Class+Act+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p-cl2mNZRIE/UDkbh2wfx2I/AAAAAAAAIuA/efbIxPbMtF0/s640/Class+Act+1.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HufgOnnSRco/UDkbl-qZSbI/AAAAAAAAIuI/mT6toAT2iCI/s1600/Class+Act+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HufgOnnSRco/UDkbl-qZSbI/AAAAAAAAIuI/mT6toAT2iCI/s640/Class+Act+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9I94MyVQYUM/UDkbqSE-vTI/AAAAAAAAIuQ/sdglUnqcS-4/s1600/Class+Act+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9I94MyVQYUM/UDkbqSE-vTI/AAAAAAAAIuQ/sdglUnqcS-4/s640/Class+Act+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /></div>http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/08/marvel-universe-375-series-4-beta-ray.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-445022581653340151Fri, 17 Aug 2012 19:38:00 +00002012-08-18T03:38:29.304+08:003.75-inchAction Figure ComicsAvengersHawkeyeThe AvengersThe Avengers 3.75" Hawkeye<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P4ATEp7RzAM/UC6Xs-afxUI/AAAAAAAAInE/zETpDzYLdWA/s1600/IMG_1649.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P4ATEp7RzAM/UC6Xs-afxUI/AAAAAAAAInE/zETpDzYLdWA/s320/IMG_1649.JPG" width="240" /></a>Ya know, what is it with guys with a bow? &nbsp;It's like they hit a target and everyone thinks they're cool. &nbsp;Seriously, they're not! <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-23c6mYECtlE/UC6XzulYr4I/AAAAAAAAInM/mOYACytdcjg/s1600/IMG_1650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-23c6mYECtlE/UC6XzulYr4I/AAAAAAAAInM/mOYACytdcjg/s320/IMG_1650.JPG" width="240" /></a>Just look at those guys in that whatchamacallit Games going on right now in London...That's right, the Olympics! &nbsp;Ya don't see taught, tight, muscular bods, cool shades, pointy ears, or designer haircuts. &nbsp;You see (some) overweight, bespectacled, ordinary-looking dudes&nbsp;shooting at stationary targets. &nbsp;Stationary targets, fer cryin' out loud! &nbsp;This guy is even legally blind in one eye. &nbsp;And he won a gold medal by beating his own world record!<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-508vpCHwJlw/UC6X4TRe1SI/AAAAAAAAInc/xfRlHsKdUcE/s1600/Legally+Blind+Archer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="190" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-508vpCHwJlw/UC6X4TRe1SI/AAAAAAAAInc/xfRlHsKdUcE/s200/Legally+Blind+Archer.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Really, he's legally blind!</td></tr></tbody></table>But in all honesty, those guys (and gals) are marksmen through and through.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vesL3RtzGOg/UC6X9saZkeI/AAAAAAAAInk/LsTC7-_svjo/s1600/IMG_1826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vesL3RtzGOg/UC6X9saZkeI/AAAAAAAAInk/LsTC7-_svjo/s320/IMG_1826.JPG" width="241" /></a>And I'm delighted to say ol' Clinty Barton here is from the same stock as a former Olympian himself! &nbsp;(Or at least at the Olympian level.) &nbsp;Sure, those guys at the London Games aren't gonna be shooting into the wind at Chitauri from the edge of a building, but what they do is about just as hard, I reckon. &nbsp;And I even bet if you asked them to try a no look shot they could hit the target too!<br /><br />Avengers Movie Hawkeye, though, is on another level. &nbsp;He's gotta be--dashing, cool as a cucumber, nicely muscled, has all that super spy training, a cool superhero name, and can shoot and hit gods, even if it was just Loki. &nbsp;And yeah, he's also got a hot superhero wife in Mockingbird. &nbsp;What's not to like?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-svELudGEZDI/UC6X2VS-FXI/AAAAAAAAInU/yx-2jYlbtc4/s1600/IMG_1651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="96" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-svELudGEZDI/UC6X2VS-FXI/AAAAAAAAInU/yx-2jYlbtc4/s400/IMG_1651.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div>So I expected his action figure to be disappointing, especially since this movie line lacks a lot of articulation. &nbsp;But I was so happy to <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2012/06/double-score.html">find him</a> that I had to grab it, since I have a thing for 3.75" actor-likenesses. &nbsp;And I think I can safely say I was somewhat surprised. &nbsp;Somewhat.<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eAyrEhCcHWE/UC6YNIL8NlI/AAAAAAAAIoE/CoX54C4DCeQ/s1600/IMG_1832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eAyrEhCcHWE/UC6YNIL8NlI/AAAAAAAAIoE/CoX54C4DCeQ/s320/IMG_1832.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b>&nbsp;The impressive new head sculpt. &nbsp;It's clearly Jeremy Renner with shades on.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hV60wfusR3w/UC6YSpRrm1I/AAAAAAAAIoQ/e1IyKZSrDn4/s1600/IMG_1967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hV60wfusR3w/UC6YSpRrm1I/AAAAAAAAIoQ/e1IyKZSrDn4/s200/IMG_1967.JPG" width="152" /></a><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Like:</b></span> The body proportions. &nbsp;Instead of a standard buck, they seem to have given Hawkeye arms and legs that are similar in length to the actor's. &nbsp;His legs a little shorter than your comic book proportions, with nice and long arms! &nbsp;All the better to sling those arrows with. ;)<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Like:</b></span> New Hips/Legs joints. &nbsp;I can't say how much I like this new joint. &nbsp;I'd wish they'd use it for all 3.75" figures. &nbsp;They're the best in the scale barring the Star Wars line ball hips, which I'd say are just as flexible. &nbsp;The joints are different, but equally afford a great range of motion.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lbs5qmmrL9E/UC6Ytuu7N-I/AAAAAAAAIpU/ZWD7RM-THbM/s1600/Hawkeye+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lbs5qmmrL9E/UC6Ytuu7N-I/AAAAAAAAIpU/ZWD7RM-THbM/s320/Hawkeye+Art.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> No ankles, no waist. &nbsp;Argh, I can't say enough for everyone how this is so annoying. &nbsp;Ankles I can sometimes live without. &nbsp;No waist or chest pivot? &nbsp;Now that's a 3.75" cardinal sin these days!<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The length of his bow. &nbsp;It's a nice log piece which looks pretty in scale with Hawkeye! &nbsp;Lots of times archers get short changed and end up with what looks more like short bows. &nbsp;There no problem with that here.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WJve4NP8YxY/UC6YI-IOe8I/AAAAAAAAIn8/DPqIviwfLqo/s1600/IMG_1831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WJve4NP8YxY/UC6YI-IOe8I/AAAAAAAAIn8/DPqIviwfLqo/s320/IMG_1831.JPG" width="240" /></a>I'd also like to add that the bow is very detailed too and looks very much like the high-tech weapon it's meant to be in the movies.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That the quiver isn't removable! &nbsp;Alas, that really decreases playability. &nbsp;It's a pity because it's also very detailed in sculpt.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_SyoiR6P3kc/UC6YalrSeYI/AAAAAAAAIos/GcZKl85nDXo/s1600/IMG_1970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_SyoiR6P3kc/UC6YalrSeYI/AAAAAAAAIos/GcZKl85nDXo/s320/IMG_1970.JPG" width="240" /></a>Also, Hawkeye is the one Avenger that doesn't have super powers, so it would've been nice if he could be outfitted with all sorts of harnesses, webbings, backpacks, and gear pilfered from GI Joes.<br /><br /><h3><b>RATINGS</b></h3><b><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Aesthetics: 8/10</span></b> - There's no denying that he's the movie Hawkeye, all right. &nbsp;besides the head and the proportions, I especially love the tampoed S.H.I.E.L.D insignias on his torso. For the size they are, they've done a really sharp job. &nbsp;The sculpting overall is excellent, from his bow and quiver to his vest, legs and even the muscles on his arms. &nbsp;The paint could be a little sharper though, but at least the got the shades on his face right.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0smVcFBdKlc/UC6YWuTrHHI/AAAAAAAAIog/nvN6h5upxn4/s1600/IMG_1969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0smVcFBdKlc/UC6YWuTrHHI/AAAAAAAAIog/nvN6h5upxn4/s200/IMG_1969.JPG" width="183" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6Weo7druVLg/UC6Ydxn7otI/AAAAAAAAIo0/vVgFRhLvRX0/s1600/IMG_1971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6Weo7druVLg/UC6Ydxn7otI/AAAAAAAAIo0/vVgFRhLvRX0/s200/IMG_1971.JPG" width="190" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KBwdiNbKALE/UC6YUlUkZgI/AAAAAAAAIoY/ZsW-hzrSVDM/s1600/IMG_1968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KBwdiNbKALE/UC6YUlUkZgI/AAAAAAAAIoY/ZsW-hzrSVDM/s200/IMG_1968.JPG" width="160" /></a></div><span style="color: #38761d;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Poseability: 6.5/10</b></span> - And archer needs wrists and this guy doesn't even have swivels! &nbsp;No waist/chest or ankles, and a limited head kinda throws a wrench in the works of this one ever being better than a 6 or 7. &nbsp;He gets the 0.5 for the cool leg/hips, which don't need any sort of alignment to go one way or another--they just <i>move</i> and move well. &nbsp;The shoulders are also good for a full range of free motion.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0QoGuJ6oLqk/UC6YExEz7fI/AAAAAAAAIn0/8vvgOBcqw2k/s1600/IMG_1830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0QoGuJ6oLqk/UC6YExEz7fI/AAAAAAAAIn0/8vvgOBcqw2k/s200/IMG_1830.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_m0g1zBjA0Q/UC6YBkb6mCI/AAAAAAAAIns/8PA60nNdsoA/s1600/IMG_1829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_m0g1zBjA0Q/UC6YBkb6mCI/AAAAAAAAIns/8PA60nNdsoA/s320/IMG_1829.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Fun: 7/10</span></b> - It's hard to make this guy look like he's doing anything convincingly other than stand there and look cool. &nbsp;I guess he can stand upright and look like he just fired off an arrow, but that's well, kinda of not-fun. &nbsp;He can't kneel and fire, because the knee hinges only give about 80 degrees of bend. &nbsp;He can fire an arrow while doing the splits, but it just isn't what you'd like Hawkeye to be doing.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dHuovfh_yXo/UC6YQ5omENI/AAAAAAAAIoM/MZyJKEICw0E/s1600/IMG_1966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dHuovfh_yXo/UC6YQ5omENI/AAAAAAAAIoM/MZyJKEICw0E/s320/IMG_1966.JPG" width="280" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Value: 6/10</span></b> - Hawkeye comes with his bow as well as this other missile firing cannon that has a similar bow glued onto it. &nbsp;I guess it's supposed to be his "play bow." &nbsp;It's nice that they gave 3 different "arrow" missiles for it with 3 different heads. &nbsp;But they're just way too big to look like he would even carry the arrow heads around, let alone the whole "arrow." &nbsp;It's really a waste of plastic, though, because it would've been great to have some "trick arrows" that are in scale with the&nbsp;figure.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MBCjehKZYZc/UC6Ym-6MvMI/AAAAAAAAIpE/EsMBUdcOY8k/s1600/IMG_1974.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MBCjehKZYZc/UC6Ym-6MvMI/AAAAAAAAIpE/EsMBUdcOY8k/s320/IMG_1974.JPG" width="265" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Overall: 6.9/10 - Above Average with Obvious Flaws</span></b> - I was kinda surprised Hawkeye wasn't any worse than I thought he would be. &nbsp;But it 's always easy to be pleasantly caught off guard when you set your expectations low.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7gj0sjgK8Zw/UC6YiKfaUoI/AAAAAAAAIo8/_YPbPQbzq9o/s1600/IMG_1972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7gj0sjgK8Zw/UC6YiKfaUoI/AAAAAAAAIo8/_YPbPQbzq9o/s320/IMG_1972.JPG" width="292" /></a>Any archer needs a bow, arrows, and swivel/hinge wrists. There's no excuse there. &nbsp;Any 3.75" needs ankles, and waists, at the very least. &nbsp;So it's just a pity something that looks so movie accurate and has a relatively good sculpt ended up not fulfilling its potential. &nbsp;At least he looks stylish just standing there. &nbsp;But the one good thing is that now I can go about attempting a custom movie Hawkeye because I already have a movie accurate Jeremy Renner head.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ug6k-F6XwU/UC6YxEkJ1BI/AAAAAAAAIpc/S4XLCjSjFQo/s1600/Style.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="483" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ug6k-F6XwU/UC6YxEkJ1BI/AAAAAAAAIpc/S4XLCjSjFQo/s640/Style.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-avengers-375-hawkeye.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-3742945358427326603Thu, 16 Aug 2012 21:43:00 +00002012-08-17T05:43:01.661+08:003.75-inch6-inchDC Universe ClassicsDCUCIron ManMarvel UniverseStar WarsToy HaulThe Haul!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7M_kEsUAzSw/UC1k_cOtz6I/AAAAAAAAIks/6F-fKSCAbiM/s1600/IMG_2030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7M_kEsUAzSw/UC1k_cOtz6I/AAAAAAAAIks/6F-fKSCAbiM/s320/IMG_2030.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3 for $20? &nbsp;Thank you very much!</td></tr></tbody></table>Hello, true believers!<br /><br />It's been a while since I last had a decent haul. &nbsp;I think the last time I had anything good enough to be considered a good bargain was way back in December at the <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2011/08/singapore-toy-game-and-comic-convention_22.html">Singapore Toys Games and Comics Convention 2011</a>. &nbsp;Yeah, that's long enough back.<br /><br />So when I read over at <a href="http://www.openthetoy.com/2012/08/16th-crazy-toy-sales-takashimaya.html">Open The Toy</a>&nbsp;that there was a sale at local department store Takashimaya, I jumped at the chance to go! <br /><br />This particular store usually is stocked with the latest from all the lines like Marvel Universe, DC Universe, Star Wars, Lego, Thundercats, etc. &nbsp;But it almost never puts stuff on clearance--except in these particular 3 weeks in the year. &nbsp;And when stuff goes on clearance, it <i>really</i> goes on clearance!<br /><br />So I'd been working without a break since the last week of July so I really needed to cut loose. &nbsp;And that I certainly did...<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br />I was really looking forward to scoring a couple of things: 3.75" Iron Man Armored&nbsp;Adventures&nbsp;figures (which are essentially Iron Man 2 figures continued in a new line) and perhaps some really cheap DCUC stuff I could use as custom fodder.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dKV_cpazEgA/UC1mAM12PFI/AAAAAAAAImE/A1HT7rA0ywM/s1600/IMG_7606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dKV_cpazEgA/UC1mAM12PFI/AAAAAAAAImE/A1HT7rA0ywM/s320/IMG_7606.JPG" width="240" /></a>However, when I found the Hasbro section, there weren't any more Iron Man figures except for Reactor Shift Armor Iron Man--and he was the only one! &nbsp;He was lying atop a ton of Thor Movie figures. &nbsp;And those were next to a fairly large amount of Star Wars figures.<br /><br />Bummed out, I took the Iron Man anyway and glanced over at the Thor figs: Sword Spike Thor, Light-up Thor, and Deluxe Ridiculous-looking yellow Thor. &nbsp;Oh and there were some Deluxe Frost Giants too, but I already had three of them and didn't figure I could use them for customs anyway, eve for 3 for S$20.<br /><br />The I went through the Star Wars stuff and found Jodo Kast for S$8. &nbsp;He's a K-Mart Exclusive in the US (but not here), so score! &nbsp;I already had him but he's got a nice generic head, a removable helmet,&nbsp;jet-pack, pistol, and rifle (I think), so custom fodder!<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2yEujxdrQN8/UC1lqLvJAGI/AAAAAAAAIlk/MncDmZoS-jk/s1600/IMG_2040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2yEujxdrQN8/UC1lqLvJAGI/AAAAAAAAIlk/MncDmZoS-jk/s320/IMG_2040.JPG" width="240" /></a>Feeling&nbsp;somewhat&nbsp;happier, I moved along and found the DCUC section. &nbsp;There was a ton of Wave 9 figures, stacked six high and in a 4 x 4 pile, going at 2 for S$12. &nbsp;No Black Canaries or Green Arrows, though. &nbsp;I wanted to pick up a couple of The Guardian for customs when one of the guys working there, who was hoarding stuff as they were opening them to stack in piles, threw over a Jonah Hex and Creeper. &nbsp;Let's just say they barely stayed where they were for long because I grabbed 'em. &nbsp;Lol.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3MDQkJDZYN4/UC1lkotHrjI/AAAAAAAAIlc/x7Lfvz9gIXc/s1600/IMG_2037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3MDQkJDZYN4/UC1lkotHrjI/AAAAAAAAIlc/x7Lfvz9gIXc/s320/IMG_2037.JPG" width="240" /></a>Hex was a unique sculpt and Creeper had another Bane part. &nbsp;I'd already gotten the Riddler and Robin from the wave, so that left me with Mercury and Azrael as Batman, which I'm hoping to find when I go back in a couple of days.<br /><br />I should also mention that there was a whole separate and equally large pile of DCUC Green Lantern Wave 1 going for $10 a piece. &nbsp;Those were a great deal because you could find all the figures to get the Collect and Connect Arkillo.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bm6SXWJX5Gk/UC1lv3_Vm8I/AAAAAAAAIls/rApea3XJp6E/s1600/IMG_2034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bm6SXWJX5Gk/UC1lv3_Vm8I/AAAAAAAAIls/rApea3XJp6E/s320/IMG_2034.JPG" width="240" /></a>At this point, I though I'd head back to the Star Wars section and pick up more custom fodder. &nbsp;I'm looking at some the Clone Wars packs when I look up and see a fellow hunter, well-dressed, with his basket full of swag. &nbsp;It's then I realize that it was none other than my good buddy the Rangerlord. &nbsp;Talk about a great roll on the Random Encounter Table!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_bdGvStf3A8/UC1l1fAgGnI/AAAAAAAAIl0/x0lE9dTAfw4/s1600/IMG_2031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_bdGvStf3A8/UC1l1fAgGnI/AAAAAAAAIl0/x0lE9dTAfw4/s320/IMG_2031.JPG" width="240" /></a>We get to talking and we both know one thing is going to happen--we're gonna be talking each other into buying more stuff. &nbsp;Hah!<br /><br />In this instance, he convinced me to pick up that Bossk that I was mulling over. &nbsp;"It's the definitive Bossk!" he said and I believed. &nbsp;It's hard to beat the Rangerlord when it comes to all things Star Wars. &nbsp;He also&nbsp;sold me on Jango Fett, who was crap but had a ton of accessories to pilfer. &nbsp;That there&nbsp;was no denying.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uYNQKnHRR18/UC1lZd_DgdI/AAAAAAAAIlM/z0yA0xe6cn8/s1600/IMG_2013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uYNQKnHRR18/UC1lZd_DgdI/AAAAAAAAIlM/z0yA0xe6cn8/s320/IMG_2013.JPG" width="241" /></a>I was also telling him that the Iron Man Armored Adventure figures had been swept clean. &nbsp;He promptly showed me where 3 more Reactor Shift Armor figs where kinda randomly thrown separate from the rest of the Hasbro stuff. &nbsp;No way I needed 3 of the same figure.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOAtDEoUDio/UC1lNXq9AHI/AAAAAAAAIk8/VmoBzlbOraQ/s1600/IMG_2017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOAtDEoUDio/UC1lNXq9AHI/AAAAAAAAIk8/VmoBzlbOraQ/s320/IMG_2017.JPG" width="241" /></a>Shrugging, we moved back to the DCUC section in case we missed something out. &nbsp;RL had already had the whole GL1 wave sans Kyle Raynor in his basket to "complete his Arkillo--I only have his one leg." &nbsp;But managed to sell him on another Low/Maash "so you can display both Low <i>and </i>Mash at the same time!"<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IJ7z2ZJLWjc/UC1lfXEa9eI/AAAAAAAAIlU/49nkfodRqNs/s1600/IMG_2025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IJ7z2ZJLWjc/UC1lfXEa9eI/AAAAAAAAIlU/49nkfodRqNs/s320/IMG_2025.JPG" width="240" /></a>Feeling like we pretty much covered what we wanted to look at (I'd also picked up an S$8 [down from S$19.90) movie Captain America mask and a motorized Chuck the Truck [Also S$8] for my son), we hit the cashier.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OfBWyertRLw/UC1lTVkTALI/AAAAAAAAIlE/HA06KXTwHGo/s1600/IMG_2024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OfBWyertRLw/UC1lTVkTALI/AAAAAAAAIlE/HA06KXTwHGo/s320/IMG_2024.JPG" width="240" /></a>That was when I asked them whether they had more IM Armored Adventure figures. &nbsp;They did, with the cashier bringing forth a brand new case--the last one, she said. &nbsp;The&nbsp;mother load, I said, waving the Rangerlord over.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6O4rECEyP0Y/UC1lHTGUQ3I/AAAAAAAAIk0/cNNeSy04QBM/s1600/IMG_2019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6O4rECEyP0Y/UC1lHTGUQ3I/AAAAAAAAIk0/cNNeSy04QBM/s320/IMG_2019.JPG" width="240" /></a>I got:&nbsp;Sonic Storm Armor, Inferno Armor, Subterranean Armor, Shield Breaker Armor, Exosphere Armor, and the&nbsp;Reactor Shift Armor from when I first saw it. &nbsp;6 figures for S$40. &nbsp;That world out to be $6.67 per figure, which is 1/3 of the retail price!<br /><br />The Rangerlord picked up Artillery Armor War Machine, Light-up War Machine, and the HAMMER Drone. &nbsp;This after saying he had too many War Machines. &nbsp;Uh huh. ;P<br /><br />So at the end of the day it was a great haul for both of us, with the convince-to-buy-more score something like 8-4 in the Rangerlord's favour. &nbsp;See what happens when we get together? &nbsp;Moral of the story: always bring more cash just in case you run into a friend. &nbsp;Haha!http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-haul.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-6966848988251436756Sun, 05 Aug 2012 21:50:00 +00002012-08-06T05:50:38.242+08:003.75-inchAction Figure ComicsBlastaarMarvel UniverseMarvel Universe 3.75" Series 4 Blastaar (024 Variant)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lTVcf33-r3E/UB7kIebdy6I/AAAAAAAAIgo/oJSbDjGR3Uo/s1600/IMG_1756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lTVcf33-r3E/UB7kIebdy6I/AAAAAAAAIgo/oJSbDjGR3Uo/s320/IMG_1756.JPG" width="240" /></a>I was just thinking about it while playing around with Blastaar and realized that the really badass villains in both the Marvel and DC Universe come from somewhere other than Earth.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2rY9yygr1VQ/UB7kNpmIqtI/AAAAAAAAIgw/DZkDYCBK6IY/s1600/IMG_1757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2rY9yygr1VQ/UB7kNpmIqtI/AAAAAAAAIgw/DZkDYCBK6IY/s320/IMG_1757.JPG" width="240" /></a>Sure, the craziest ones still come from our neck of the universe--Magneto, Dr. Doom, Apocalypse, the Joker and Lex Luthor--but the really powerful ones usually come from somewhere else.<br /><br />In the Marvel universe, Blastaar is one of those villains that has the raw power to take over the world single-handedly. &nbsp;Like Annihilus, Thanos, and Galactus, he's seemingly powerful enough that he could very well take over the universe.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0ecAys8M7GE/UB7kRB2oSAI/AAAAAAAAIg4/nwK8y3DDpXc/s1600/IMG_1758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="156" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0ecAys8M7GE/UB7kRB2oSAI/AAAAAAAAIg4/nwK8y3DDpXc/s320/IMG_1758.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />So despite not having read much about him in the comics or seen him much in any other medium, I knew of him. &nbsp;I can't say for sure where I'd heard of him but he's always been there, hovering like some nightmare Carebear. &nbsp;And now he's gotten his own Marvel Universe figure! &nbsp;Yay! &nbsp;Enough talk, more review!--Okay!<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RLPI94ANj3I/UB7kwJQAObI/AAAAAAAAIh4/PBwsntZ1JuM/s1600/IMG_1944.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RLPI94ANj3I/UB7kwJQAObI/AAAAAAAAIh4/PBwsntZ1JuM/s200/IMG_1944.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u5kxEb1_D0Y/UB7ksnmUzoI/AAAAAAAAIhw/AFeMCYmOv7o/s1600/IMG_1943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u5kxEb1_D0Y/UB7ksnmUzoI/AAAAAAAAIhw/AFeMCYmOv7o/s200/IMG_1943.JPG" width="150" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Glowy hands! &nbsp;I love how they moulded the arms after the bicep swivel in a clear, yellowish orange plastic, then gave it a gradual grey paint job, thicker from the top fading to just the orange plastic at the hands. &nbsp;He's about to blast someone!!!<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Like: </b></span>Glowy eyes! &nbsp;He's got pale yellow-painted eyes, which are different from his powered down variant, which are white. &nbsp;It matches really well with his glowy I'mma-blast-the-heck-outta-someone hands &nbsp;and of course, his wild facial expression!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-41PMSUywejc/UB7kVMFCKDI/AAAAAAAAIhA/IN2rWzIgG3s/s1600/IMG_1945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-41PMSUywejc/UB7kVMFCKDI/AAAAAAAAIhA/IN2rWzIgG3s/s320/IMG_1945.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The head - great crazy expression! &nbsp;The flowy hair, the eyes and especially the teeth are well picked out out with paint. &nbsp;When you spot him for the first time it grabs you, then you realize he's got glowing hands. &nbsp;I imagine this is what the Fantastic Four notice too before they taste some highly concussive energy blasts to the face!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rqDw_0Cikfs/UB7kZINA2aI/AAAAAAAAIhI/y2ze6KJh2SM/s1600/IMG_1866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rqDw_0Cikfs/UB7kZINA2aI/AAAAAAAAIhI/y2ze6KJh2SM/s320/IMG_1866.JPG" width="240" /></a><br /><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> The limited ball/hinge head joint. &nbsp;Because of the regally sculpt mane of hair and his beard, Blastaar loses the upward and downward motion of the hinge. &nbsp;The head still swivels fine, but it looks like there wasn't any other way they could've done such a great head sculpt and kept the articulation. &nbsp;Well, any other way other than using actual hair and fur of course. &nbsp;But that would be a tad creepy... &nbsp;Imagine, you'd have to shampoo and condition Blastaar's beard every other week to keep it soft and shiny...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oLkTVIQMcQA/UB7k8Ab3ZhI/AAAAAAAAIiY/rSX2U46-1bA/s1600/IMG_1940.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oLkTVIQMcQA/UB7k8Ab3ZhI/AAAAAAAAIiY/rSX2U46-1bA/s200/IMG_1940.JPG" width="197" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JYG0iRxj1kI/UB7k5VmbkYI/AAAAAAAAIiQ/DwCp4l-f-qo/s1600/IMG_1939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JYG0iRxj1kI/UB7k5VmbkYI/AAAAAAAAIiQ/DwCp4l-f-qo/s200/IMG_1939.JPG" width="190" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bMEFQsexLHY/UB7k3ThDsnI/AAAAAAAAIiI/QKlkUFEhmDk/s1600/IMG_1938.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bMEFQsexLHY/UB7k3ThDsnI/AAAAAAAAIiI/QKlkUFEhmDk/s200/IMG_1938.JPG" width="177" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like: </span></b>The re-used buck. &nbsp; This is the body they've used for Juggernaut, Thanos, Classic Hulk, Apocalypse, and Skaar. &nbsp;But I'm more than happy to pay for it--it's a well articulated and stable buck. &nbsp;And Hasbro gave it just enough tooling to make the figure look different. &nbsp;In Blastaar's case, it's the unique head and his collar.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9UrJylQmbvI/UB7kck5gTwI/AAAAAAAAIhQ/8axjM6kptno/s1600/IMG_1867.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9UrJylQmbvI/UB7kck5gTwI/AAAAAAAAIhQ/8axjM6kptno/s320/IMG_1867.JPG" width="311" /></a></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-96MSGhGjSgQ/UB7klFuAl4I/AAAAAAAAIhg/OEXl34nFdQ4/s1600/IMG_1947.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-96MSGhGjSgQ/UB7klFuAl4I/AAAAAAAAIhg/OEXl34nFdQ4/s200/IMG_1947.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That I don't know much about him and I think he's been sort of under utilized by Marvel compared to the other all-conquering villains! &nbsp;TakeAnnihilus, for example. &nbsp;They're both from the Negative Zone, but Lil' Anni gets a whole series named after him--The Annilation Wave. &nbsp;So why the lack of love for the Blast-dog? &nbsp;Maybe because he looks a little too much like DC villains Darkseid and Kalibak? &nbsp;All the more reason to use him--D-seid and K-bak are both ferocious villains and I imagine Blastaar is more than capable of his share of violent universe conquering too!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JZagg95BW20/UB7kg6rq_GI/AAAAAAAAIhY/llssFx2b9Zw/s1600/IMG_1946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JZagg95BW20/UB7kg6rq_GI/AAAAAAAAIhY/llssFx2b9Zw/s320/IMG_1946.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That he's a Fantastic four villain. &nbsp;It's always nice to see a genius like Reed Ricahrds screw up and viola!--The F4 have a new villain to deal with, all because Mr. Fantastic couldn't not be a Smart&nbsp;Alec. &nbsp;Haha. &nbsp;Well actually, he kinda followed Reed back from the Negative Zone. &nbsp;But who asked Richards to get trapped there in the first place and require rescuing? ;P<br /><br /><h3><b><u>RATINGS</u></b></h3><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4JPlhooYSfQ/UB7kpCGbD0I/AAAAAAAAIho/vMMQhd0qmEM/s1600/IMG_1952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4JPlhooYSfQ/UB7kpCGbD0I/AAAAAAAAIho/vMMQhd0qmEM/s320/IMG_1952.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Aesthetics: 8.5/10</span></b> - The focal point of this figure is of course his great big head and his glowing arms and hands. &nbsp; It takes away from the act that the body is slightly under-decorated. &nbsp;Yep, wearing a slick, shiny onesy kinda does that to one's figure. &nbsp;At some point, Marvel and Hasbro would do well to release a <a href="http://www.google.com.sg/imgres?hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;biw=1366&amp;bih=667&amp;tbm=isch&amp;prmd=imvns&amp;tbnid=7F2x9Ge0ZapetM:&amp;imgrefurl=http://www.comicaddicts.com/2011/07/give-heed-to-marvel-cosmic-part-2.html&amp;docid=T-K5ReekCMIYwM&amp;imgurl=http://media.comicvine.com/uploads/2/27967/799658-king_blastaar001.jpg&amp;w=1280&amp;h=644&amp;ei=GUIcUNu1KsjqrAfX3IGwCA&amp;zoom=1&amp;iact=hc&amp;vpx=874&amp;vpy=16&amp;dur=281&amp;hovh=107&amp;hovw=212&amp;tx=142&amp;ty=77&amp;sig=106886770271151864030&amp;page=1&amp;tbnh=93&amp;tbnw=185&amp;start=0&amp;ndsp=21&amp;ved=1t:429,r:5,s:0,i:87">modern uniform</a> of Blastaar. &nbsp;But a classic version that we can all recognize has got to come first and they delivered well.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i_xX9Rfd13w/UB7k_CwwUAI/AAAAAAAAIig/92QHKvLjp7Y/s1600/Blastaar+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i_xX9Rfd13w/UB7k_CwwUAI/AAAAAAAAIig/92QHKvLjp7Y/s320/Blastaar+Art.jpg" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Poseability: 7.5/10</span></b> - I love the PoAs for this buck but he has the head hinge and ball blocked because of the large mane of hair and beard combo. &nbsp;Luckily, the sculpt of the head is excellent so I always wanna look at it and you don't really need to angle his face elsewhere because it's so fierce.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kM0yI-1y-BY/UB7k0YaVGkI/AAAAAAAAIiA/Cu2pdOucJ_8/s1600/IMG_1936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kM0yI-1y-BY/UB7k0YaVGkI/AAAAAAAAIiA/Cu2pdOucJ_8/s320/IMG_1936.JPG" width="241" /></a>Blastaar's also got new leg balls joints--there's nothing new about them per se, except that the ball seems to be set deeper within the upper leg, making for tighter legs that don't keep falling out like they did with the older figures. &nbsp;These balls retain the old movement, which when combined with new tightness makes for a less frustrating posing experience!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_rr0eZu6iD8/UB7lLG_Lm_I/AAAAAAAAIi4/_8upb_1OQd0/s1600/IMG_1959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_rr0eZu6iD8/UB7lLG_Lm_I/AAAAAAAAIi4/_8upb_1OQd0/s320/IMG_1959.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Fun: 8.5/10</span></b> - Blastaar is a larger than life enemy who take on the Fantastic Four, Avengers, and Annihilus so that's always fun! &nbsp;He's like a team of 4 or more bad guys rolled into one. &nbsp;With him and the Fan 4 there's a ready-made action scene for display. &nbsp;And since he's a Balurrian and their king at certain points, you can buy multiples of him for an army. &nbsp;*Wink Wink* &nbsp;For now he's a bit lonely--he needs some Neg Zone backup or maybe even his mortal enemy and dimensional buddy, Annihilus!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vz0oakDVhMw/UB7lGvx0DRI/AAAAAAAAIiw/vk0Jy9mwbgg/s1600/IMG_1957.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vz0oakDVhMw/UB7lGvx0DRI/AAAAAAAAIiw/vk0Jy9mwbgg/s320/IMG_1957.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Value: 7/10</span></b> - Not bad, but not as great as the plus-size figures from before with Fury/H.A.M.M.E.R Files and figure stands. &nbsp;He comes with the same "collectible comic card" as all the new figures. &nbsp;Again, these are nifty but are just pieces of glorified cardboard packaging. &nbsp;Also, some large blast effects for his hand would've been great. &nbsp;Not long and thin like from the Iron Mans 2 line, but like <a href="http://www.google.com.sg/imgres?hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;biw=1366&amp;bih=667&amp;tbm=isch&amp;prmd=imvns&amp;tbnid=vFr_yboL16ovMM:&amp;imgrefurl=http://www.starstore.com/acatalog/Starstore_Catalogue_COMIC_BOOK_HEROES_STATUES___MODELS_1780.html&amp;docid=4lbhEiwdkj68ZM&amp;imgurl=http://www.starstore.com/acatalog/marvel-blastaar-mini-bust.jpg&amp;w=472&amp;h=500&amp;ei=GUIcUNu1KsjqrAfX3IGwCA&amp;zoom=1&amp;iact=hc&amp;vpx=744&amp;vpy=136&amp;dur=4571&amp;hovh=231&amp;hovw=218&amp;tx=126&amp;ty=132&amp;sig=106886770271151864030&amp;page=1&amp;tbnh=144&amp;tbnw=135&amp;start=0&amp;ndsp=21&amp;ved=1t:429,r:4,s:0,i:84">this</a>.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Overall: 8/10 - He's a Keeper!</span></b> - And safely so. &nbsp;Blastaar is a tried and tested formula figure that can't go wrong. &nbsp;However, the re-use of this buck without any additional tooling might just be getting a little stale, what with his plain body and all.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jn8ZzKm7YCs/UB7lDR49N3I/AAAAAAAAIio/048NqR9b5Kk/s1600/IMG_1955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jn8ZzKm7YCs/UB7lDR49N3I/AAAAAAAAIio/048NqR9b5Kk/s320/IMG_1955.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Having said that, customizers would love this buck because you've got his head and his hands--all you've got to do for a modern version is respray the torso so he's topless and has pants, add on a shoulder guard and some armor for his legs, throw in a Ages of Thunder Thor belt and you'll have your modern Blastaar! &nbsp;If not, he's still a great figure who will crush all your other figures with his fearsome look and charged up hands.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lVuF9dSlqss/UB7lPawqfTI/AAAAAAAAIjA/XWUknf4-4OU/s1600/IMG_1954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lVuF9dSlqss/UB7lPawqfTI/AAAAAAAAIjA/XWUknf4-4OU/s640/IMG_1954.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hdlhddlAuHI/UB7lSma6QvI/AAAAAAAAIjI/8mGUX7XTkSw/s1600/Blastoise+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hdlhddlAuHI/UB7lSma6QvI/AAAAAAAAIjI/8mGUX7XTkSw/s640/Blastoise+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d0bUbqQvf-k/UB7lVFHeWcI/AAAAAAAAIjQ/r0w6zfLtRyM/s1600/Blastoise+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d0bUbqQvf-k/UB7lVFHeWcI/AAAAAAAAIjQ/r0w6zfLtRyM/s1600/Blastoise+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d0bUbqQvf-k/UB7lVFHeWcI/AAAAAAAAIjQ/r0w6zfLtRyM/s640/Blastoise+2.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fY1yBs_Kai4/UB7lX_--4dI/AAAAAAAAIjY/Sm4cl6e-8vE/s1600/Blastoise+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fY1yBs_Kai4/UB7lX_--4dI/AAAAAAAAIjY/Sm4cl6e-8vE/s640/Blastoise+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PQ_ryMklEWI/UB7la4ND-VI/AAAAAAAAIjg/a8fmVf8ZhoY/s1600/Blastoise+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PQ_ryMklEWI/UB7la4ND-VI/AAAAAAAAIjg/a8fmVf8ZhoY/s640/Blastoise+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UhvZrLbQozg/UB7ldq1LxCI/AAAAAAAAIjo/21xd9qqO2sk/s1600/Blastoise+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UhvZrLbQozg/UB7ldq1LxCI/AAAAAAAAIjo/21xd9qqO2sk/s640/Blastoise+5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/08/marvel-universe-375-series-4-blastaar.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-3827668548119153709Mon, 30 Jul 2012 22:36:00 +00002012-07-31T21:15:24.591+08:003.75-inch6-inchAction Figure ComicsCaptain AmericaMarvel LegendsMarvel UniverseThe AvengersWhat's in the Wes Box?: The Avengers 6" Captain America! (Walmart Exclusive)<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YmEt3phvVxM/UBbyAUY1k_I/AAAAAAAAIXs/GgzQnBWsLBA/s1600/IMG_1890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YmEt3phvVxM/UBbyAUY1k_I/AAAAAAAAIXs/GgzQnBWsLBA/s320/IMG_1890.JPG" width="160" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walmart Exclusive 6"</td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kijmbriew40/UBbzp-gt_YI/AAAAAAAAIbU/jnck3B2nUM4/s1600/IMG_1563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kijmbriew40/UBbzp-gt_YI/AAAAAAAAIbU/jnck3B2nUM4/s200/IMG_1563.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 3.75" Retail Version</td></tr></tbody></table>"What's in the where???..." you ask?<br /><br />Well, some weeks back, my ol' buddy-in-arms from the Articulated Discussion days Wes Dennis scored me some Walmart Exclusives--and the box arrived this week, much to my delight! (Big shout out and thanks to <a href="http://www.scary-crayon.com/">Wes of Scary Crayon</a>!)<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dTRlxK2Cxjw/UBbzut4kviI/AAAAAAAAIbc/s5wesKvMao8/s1600/IMG_1564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dTRlxK2Cxjw/UBbzut4kviI/AAAAAAAAIbc/s5wesKvMao8/s200/IMG_1564.JPG" width="150" /></a>The Avengers movie 6" Captain America was the first figure I pulled outta Wes' Wonder Box of Plastic Goodness, and with 3.75" avengers Shield Launcher Captain America the only figure in that line in that scale I have on the review burner, I've decided to make this a double-header!<br /><br />Ok, ok, so I haven't gotten around to Avengers 3.75" Hawkeye yet though I got him some time back now.&nbsp; But I certainly couldn't help not reviewing my first 6" Avengers figure right here, what with it being a Walmart Exclusive and all.&nbsp; And since I'd taken individual pictures of the 3.75" Cap, I thought a comparison review would be a great idea.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HdgCtwTVGfw/UBbzweOv6KI/AAAAAAAAIbk/9Zz5GpZbWVo/s1600/IMG_1566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="80" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HdgCtwTVGfw/UBbzweOv6KI/AAAAAAAAIbk/9Zz5GpZbWVo/s400/IMG_1566.JPG" width="400" /></a>So sit back, relax, and enjoy a double dose of movie Captain America goodness! ;)<br /><br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MCD6VbmdQuQ/UBbzbNm0NwI/AAAAAAAAIa0/YGYaF2M2kTk/s1600/IMG_1930.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MCD6VbmdQuQ/UBbzbNm0NwI/AAAAAAAAIa0/YGYaF2M2kTk/s640/IMG_1930.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From here on out, it's gonna be a game of "Spot the Difference." &nbsp;Are you ready? &nbsp;Here's a clue: ears. ;P</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MV7ZdzvyAvk/UBbzeTZ1uhI/AAAAAAAAIa8/DjXBbjY1N24/s1600/IMG_1932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MV7ZdzvyAvk/UBbzeTZ1uhI/AAAAAAAAIa8/DjXBbjY1N24/s200/IMG_1932.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><span style="background-color: #d9ead3;"><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b>&nbsp;3.75" Cap's colours--they're more movie accurate, with a lighter than usual blue. &nbsp;The 6" has a deeper tone but having said that, I do like the white under the 6-incher's arms. &nbsp;It's nice and crisp. &nbsp;Also, the bolder blue and red combo pops a lot more on the shelf. &nbsp;But I do think that a lighter blue would've had a similar effect for the the latter.</span><br /><span style="background-color: #d9ead3;"><br /></span><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nKmaAorXbFU/UBbyR6bEe6I/AAAAAAAAIYM/zG2RQ2s7Ecc/s1600/IMG_1894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: #d9ead3;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nKmaAorXbFU/UBbyR6bEe6I/AAAAAAAAIYM/zG2RQ2s7Ecc/s200/IMG_1894.JPG" width="150" /></span></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8OYRSdhxIzk/UBbz0JRSmiI/AAAAAAAAIbs/c3Q78yLBGJE/s1600/IMG_1599.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="background-color: #d9ead3;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8OYRSdhxIzk/UBbz0JRSmiI/AAAAAAAAIbs/c3Q78yLBGJE/s200/IMG_1599.JPG" width="150" /></span></a><span style="background-color: #d9ead3;"><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The proportions of the 6" Cap. &nbsp;He's leaner around the waist compared to the smaller scale figure and has longer legs compared to the rest of his body. &nbsp;His shoulders are broad and it really makes him look like he's got Chris Evan's frame. &nbsp;The 3.75" figure, on the other hand, looks rather stout because of the short legs and the thicker waist. &nbsp;They also make him rather short compared to the other figures of the line, let alone the taller Marvel universe figs.</span><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KpzAsxpXzrQ/UBbyoMOhLbI/AAAAAAAAIY8/IgevQjG8l58/s1600/IMG_1900.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: #d9ead3;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KpzAsxpXzrQ/UBbyoMOhLbI/AAAAAAAAIY8/IgevQjG8l58/s200/IMG_1900.JPG" width="174" /></span></a><span style="background-color: #d9ead3;"><br /></span><br /><span style="background-color: #d9ead3;"><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span> </b>The detailed sculpt of the 6" version. From the texture of suit, grooves in his uniform, to the separate belt piece. &nbsp;If anything there's so much detail that they couldn't afford to pick out all of it in paint. &nbsp;But the essentials are there--the silver rank (I think) on his shoulders and the buckles of his belt and boots, the sculpted and painted wings and the "A" on his forehead.&nbsp;&nbsp;And of course, the silver star on his chest. &nbsp;The 3.75-incher is decent in the detail department, but no where near level of the larger figure. or even some of the recently released Marvel Universe figures.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9T0XsotY3MI/UBbyZqpkVeI/AAAAAAAAIYc/Ox8ogRpWU3E/s1600/IMG_1896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9T0XsotY3MI/UBbyZqpkVeI/AAAAAAAAIYc/Ox8ogRpWU3E/s200/IMG_1896.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zg4fFGVGCPc/UBbyVWQCIXI/AAAAAAAAIYU/IcwV5DhSbUo/s1600/IMG_1895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zg4fFGVGCPc/UBbyVWQCIXI/AAAAAAAAIYU/IcwV5DhSbUo/s200/IMG_1895.JPG" width="109" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qdz1jMuhlGY/UBbyc81lMQI/AAAAAAAAIYk/TpqgzP6yvr8/s1600/IMG_1898.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qdz1jMuhlGY/UBbyc81lMQI/AAAAAAAAIYk/TpqgzP6yvr8/s200/IMG_1898.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ki3n36qHMTo/UBb-xt2zwuI/AAAAAAAAIew/Q4Mc2Brdf58/s1600/Cap+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ki3n36qHMTo/UBb-xt2zwuI/AAAAAAAAIew/Q4Mc2Brdf58/s200/Cap+Art.jpg" width="191" /></a></div><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike: </span></b>The poor articulation of the 3.75" Cap. &nbsp;No chest/waist, no ankles, and no wrists. At least he's got double hinge knees. :/<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e4P6twD-guQ/UBbyIAiQuxI/AAAAAAAAIX8/WXEoE2gMlOk/s1600/Cap+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e4P6twD-guQ/UBbyIAiQuxI/AAAAAAAAIX8/WXEoE2gMlOk/s320/Cap+Art.jpg" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The superb articulation on the 6" figure. He's got a great chest pivot, new hinge/swivel "shoe peg" joints in the ankles, and a ball/hinge head. &nbsp;The double hinges for the elbows and knees are also simply superb!<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xlmna7QKbMM/UBb0RiBhTGI/AAAAAAAAIcs/mcEHaYhmwRc/s1600/IMG_1610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xlmna7QKbMM/UBb0RiBhTGI/AAAAAAAAIcs/mcEHaYhmwRc/s200/IMG_1610.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />In addition, the posts of the swivel/hinge leg ball joints are connected horizontallly to each other through the crotch instead of toward the lower abdomen. &nbsp;This makes for excellent leg joints which you won't have to twist and swivel like a Rubik's cube to make sure they move how you want them to. &nbsp;Instead, you can move the legs any which way you want to and they'll comply! &nbsp;It's almost like telekinesis--but with your hands! :P<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YiEjHajg6Fk/UBbyuuoZDYI/AAAAAAAAIZM/5CD_K4tJQ8E/s1600/IMG_1902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="396" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YiEjHajg6Fk/UBbyuuoZDYI/AAAAAAAAIZM/5CD_K4tJQ8E/s640/IMG_1902.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Four-finger push-ups? Done!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RnM5FzMdfPA/UBbz3a37a7I/AAAAAAAAIb0/o_Ovn4_Hmdw/s1600/IMG_1600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RnM5FzMdfPA/UBbz3a37a7I/AAAAAAAAIb0/o_Ovn4_Hmdw/s200/IMG_1600.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3.75" Accessorize!</td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EnBnLhCOl7E/UBbzXD6-akI/AAAAAAAAIas/czCMw9-870Y/s1600/IMG_1928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EnBnLhCOl7E/UBbzXD6-akI/AAAAAAAAIas/czCMw9-870Y/s200/IMG_1928.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6" Cap Shield</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That the 6-inch Cap has a shield that has adjustable straps! &nbsp;You can tighten or loosen each of them by up to 3 degrees each way. &nbsp;But if you want it to be secure, you'll have to pull the straps all the way till it's tight, then hide the excess straps behind his forearm. &nbsp;So whether it's in his hand, worn like a backpack, carried like a handbag or even strapped to his bum, you'll get that extra secure look. ;)<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ikPFoORYm5I/UBb0KLOvJvI/AAAAAAAAIcc/-5p90py1NOg/s1600/IMG_1607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ikPFoORYm5I/UBb0KLOvJvI/AAAAAAAAIcc/-5p90py1NOg/s200/IMG_1607.JPG" width="180" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vfkIebm-amk/UBbyOLvz2wI/AAAAAAAAIYE/w0pbcPI7X7o/s1600/IMG_1892.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vfkIebm-amk/UBbyOLvz2wI/AAAAAAAAIYE/w0pbcPI7X7o/s320/IMG_1892.JPG" width="320" /></a>The other small issue I have is that the shield is cast in a dull red in an attempt to look metallic and it doesn't come off the best. &nbsp;It's not bad, but the 3.75" shield actually looks much better because it's painted and hence more shiny.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wC2uZVaMoig/UBb0m_k4icI/AAAAAAAAIds/CWaMzVnyJig/s1600/IMG_1782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wC2uZVaMoig/UBb0m_k4icI/AAAAAAAAIds/CWaMzVnyJig/s200/IMG_1782.JPG" width="195" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That the 3.75" Cap's shield has hardened plastic handles which only allow it to be held in hand. &nbsp;And while that's not too bad for the scale, I think most would still prefer the elastic band attached to the shield for that added tightness and versatility.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MpGBr7aTQ3w/UBbykqWDRAI/AAAAAAAAIY0/ELG-e9APEDU/s1600/IMG_1901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MpGBr7aTQ3w/UBbykqWDRAI/AAAAAAAAIY0/ELG-e9APEDU/s200/IMG_1901.JPG" width="150" /></a>I like to have Cap wear his shield on his back and with elastic bands, the 3.75-incher would at least be able to do that.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That both have rather bland expressions on their faces. &nbsp;Give them a frown, a smirk, a smile--give them <i>anything </i>and they'll look better for sure in any one of his poses. &nbsp;This is often an issue with many an action figure. &nbsp;Why go plain when just about any other expression would give the figure a whole lot more character?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JbUGu8ZmUGI/UBbzLAshbyI/AAAAAAAAIaU/HlqYm4At9As/s1600/IMG_1916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JbUGu8ZmUGI/UBbzLAshbyI/AAAAAAAAIaU/HlqYm4At9As/s200/IMG_1916.JPG" width="180" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vMSpbZ2pJcU/UBbzHnPeUeI/AAAAAAAAIaE/_2ESeeMbQIg/s1600/IMG_1912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vMSpbZ2pJcU/UBbzHnPeUeI/AAAAAAAAIaE/_2ESeeMbQIg/s200/IMG_1912.JPG" width="136" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nJbI2d4SqOM/UBbzJtzZJzI/AAAAAAAAIaM/b8dlruGCtt8/s1600/IMG_1915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nJbI2d4SqOM/UBbzJtzZJzI/AAAAAAAAIaM/b8dlruGCtt8/s200/IMG_1915.JPG" width="191" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;">(6" Smile. &nbsp;Sort of.)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fno7O04uQYk/UBb0YIzViyI/AAAAAAAAIdM/yvObUkCLrlU/s1600/IMG_1774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fno7O04uQYk/UBb0YIzViyI/AAAAAAAAIdM/yvObUkCLrlU/s200/IMG_1774.JPG" width="175" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-anJfduo2iIQ/UBb0ViHrKuI/AAAAAAAAIc4/5QT212hanCM/s1600/IMG_1772.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-anJfduo2iIQ/UBb0ViHrKuI/AAAAAAAAIc4/5QT212hanCM/s200/IMG_1772.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9-4sZ4syj2E/UBb0W4gjI_I/AAAAAAAAIdE/aHyu6R8mIks/s1600/IMG_1773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9-4sZ4syj2E/UBb0W4gjI_I/AAAAAAAAIdE/aHyu6R8mIks/s200/IMG_1773.JPG" width="165" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;">(3.75" Scowl. &nbsp;Well, sort of.)</span></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xgo0p3PybtE/UBbzTKCBGOI/AAAAAAAAIak/yhqFxBg2si0/s1600/IMG_1925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xgo0p3PybtE/UBbzTKCBGOI/AAAAAAAAIak/yhqFxBg2si0/s320/IMG_1925.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d68kRmJyZL0/UBb0cRcyP-I/AAAAAAAAIdU/SJZ860A7wrs/s1600/IMG_1775.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d68kRmJyZL0/UBb0cRcyP-I/AAAAAAAAIdU/SJZ860A7wrs/s200/IMG_1775.JPG" width="150" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like: </span></b>That the 3.75-incher comes with a non-removable holster with a removable sidearm. &nbsp;It's one more accessory and a place to store it when the action isn't so hot. &nbsp;Trouble with this though, is that it isn't movie accurate at all.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vvrKW39RrzE/UBb0gn0ewvI/AAAAAAAAIdc/2C9Id7nhFtI/s1600/IMG_1776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vvrKW39RrzE/UBb0gn0ewvI/AAAAAAAAIdc/2C9Id7nhFtI/s200/IMG_1776.JPG" width="150" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That the 6-incher gets this right--there's no holster and no sidearm. &nbsp;But this also means that there are less accessories. &nbsp;He may come with a nifty&nbsp;connectible&nbsp;base of hexes (from the Heroscape superhero tabletop game) and I like it quite a bit, but that's nothing compared with an extra semi-automatic rifle or two. &nbsp;He does use one in the movies,&nbsp;after all. &nbsp;A switchable unmasked head would be great, but it would also be asking a bit much, wouldn't it? ;P<br /><br /><h3> <b><u>RATINGS</u></b></h3><b><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Aesthetics:</span></b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MbqMboSXpAQ/UBbyFLxxwUI/AAAAAAAAIX0/Xfd-NDaiAMo/s1600/IMG_1891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MbqMboSXpAQ/UBbyFLxxwUI/AAAAAAAAIX0/Xfd-NDaiAMo/s200/IMG_1891.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mAjXPX3PvpU/UBbygE5KzOI/AAAAAAAAIYs/wYyOEY0S_8I/s1600/IMG_1899.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mAjXPX3PvpU/UBbygE5KzOI/AAAAAAAAIYs/wYyOEY0S_8I/s320/IMG_1899.JPG" width="185" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">6"</span><span style="color: #38761d;">: 8.5/10</span> -</b>&nbsp;Great tooled detail on the sculpt but equally, this guy's proportions are right. &nbsp;He's also in scale with the rest of the Marvel movie 6" crew like Thor, Iron Man Mk VI, and Nick Fury (who's a little tall.)<br /><br />Cap's also got some nicely sculpted and picked out detail, making him very movie accurate. &nbsp;One glance and a 3 year-old would know it's movie Cap.&nbsp; Heck, maybe even my 1 year-old can tell! ;)<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rX8HQF9eS2k/UBby3Cs7omI/AAAAAAAAIZc/e2tXVgRewek/s1600/IMG_1904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rX8HQF9eS2k/UBby3Cs7omI/AAAAAAAAIZc/e2tXVgRewek/s320/IMG_1904.JPG" width="296" /></a>Cap's boots, face, and mid-torso are painted and are sharp, with no spills, smudges or fuzzy lines. &nbsp;It's some of the best paint I've seen in the 6" scale, though there's actually very little painted parts.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T-Ly3esQ3IQ/UBbz7GdLZoI/AAAAAAAAIb8/4_w7CVWk66I/s1600/IMG_1601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T-Ly3esQ3IQ/UBbz7GdLZoI/AAAAAAAAIb8/4_w7CVWk66I/s200/IMG_1601.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="background-color: #b6d7a8;"><b><span style="color: red;">3.75"</span><span style="color: #38761d;">: 7/10</span> -</b>&nbsp;He's a little stocky for my liking but he's got the right shade of blue on him. &nbsp;His face is kinda neutral but the rest of him still looks nice and sharp</span>.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Poseability:</span></b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ndm1h4gReEw/UBbyy8lfeQI/AAAAAAAAIZU/qEGUAe95JJs/s1600/IMG_1903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ndm1h4gReEw/UBbyy8lfeQI/AAAAAAAAIZU/qEGUAe95JJs/s320/IMG_1903.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b><span style="color: red;">6"</span><span style="color: #38761d;">: 9.5/10</span> -</b>&nbsp;His articulation is near perfect as I mentioned above and he comes with an accessory that can be strapped on to just about anywhere you want. &nbsp;What sets him apart form the usual 6"action figure are his horizontally-connected legs posts, his swivel hinge head, and his hinge/swivel ankles.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BKsVd3tqtIM/UBby_Ql5eVI/AAAAAAAAIZs/yNtsI-ph-z8/s1600/IMG_1908.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BKsVd3tqtIM/UBby_Ql5eVI/AAAAAAAAIZs/yNtsI-ph-z8/s320/IMG_1908.JPG" width="240" /></a>While I'm not sure if ML has adopted swivel/hinge heads or the "shoe" ankles in their recent "Return Of" offerings, I'm pretty sure the legs are unique to the Avengers toy lines. &nbsp;All the new movie 3.75" figures have them (Hawkeye, <u><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2012/07/avengers-375-grapple-firing-black-widow.html">Black Widow</a></u>, Ultimates Thor), so it's nice to see them carry it over to Cap in this scale.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S3QeSaT48HU/UBby7GgR3FI/AAAAAAAAIZk/jQdfdvRYVZ0/s1600/IMG_1907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S3QeSaT48HU/UBby7GgR3FI/AAAAAAAAIZk/jQdfdvRYVZ0/s320/IMG_1907.JPG" width="320" /></a>As for the ankles, if you thought they worked great in the MU 3.75" scale, well they work even better on 6" Cap. &nbsp;The joint is nice and tight and rotates smoothly but also looks great--on Cap, you can hardly tell that he's got anything other than hinges on his ankles, so when you do rotate the foot, it looks pretty seamless and extremely life-like!<br /><br />As far as swivel/hinge heads go, Cap is par for the course so no complaints about an excellent, well-hidden joint here!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ucDRf-2bto/UBb0GQuQ1-I/AAAAAAAAIcU/5u2_U3974yI/s1600/IMG_1605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ucDRf-2bto/UBb0GQuQ1-I/AAAAAAAAIcU/5u2_U3974yI/s200/IMG_1605.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UOKGM5xdmOU/UBb0NuoBdbI/AAAAAAAAIck/zao5kaIcoiQ/s1600/IMG_1608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UOKGM5xdmOU/UBb0NuoBdbI/AAAAAAAAIck/zao5kaIcoiQ/s200/IMG_1608.JPG" width="191" /></a><span style="background-color: #b6d7a8;"><b><span style="color: red;">3.75"</span><span style="color: #38761d;">: 7/10</span> -</b>&nbsp;Stiff. &nbsp;That's what comes to mind. &nbsp;Still, with his double hinge knees and leg joints similar to the 6-incher, he can pull off a pretty pose or two. &nbsp;But when it comes down to the bread and butter poses like punching, throwing, or even running, cap struggles to look the part. &nbsp;I can understand that ankles might have cost a little too much to include, but wrists? &nbsp;Come on, even I can add them on easily, what with my grand total of two customs under my belt. &nbsp;Lol.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><b><br /></b></span><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Fun:</b></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s5Y7EV9RF8Y/UBbzGXXux3I/AAAAAAAAIZ8/8gDVqcUhIhw/s1600/IMG_1911.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s5Y7EV9RF8Y/UBbzGXXux3I/AAAAAAAAIZ8/8gDVqcUhIhw/s320/IMG_1911.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VdLyod2a4Ik/UBbzC1B9nvI/AAAAAAAAIZ0/Yf2ZrDxHC7k/s1600/IMG_1909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VdLyod2a4Ik/UBbzC1B9nvI/AAAAAAAAIZ0/Yf2ZrDxHC7k/s200/IMG_1909.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">6"</span><span style="color: #38761d;">: 10/10</span></b> - Nothing beats a figure that looks good on a shelf, feels great in your hand, plays like a dream, and captures a popular character in a popular movie/show/series. &nbsp;This Cap America checks all the boxes and then some.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XG-CfSB9slI/UBbz-XHe2-I/AAAAAAAAIcE/QCL3SB4YHI0/s1600/IMG_1602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XG-CfSB9slI/UBbz-XHe2-I/AAAAAAAAIcE/QCL3SB4YHI0/s200/IMG_1602.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="background-color: #b6d7a8;"><b><span style="color: red;">3.75"</span><span style="color: #38761d;">: 7/10</span></b> - Nothing is more disappointing than a figure that looks a little off (he's a shorty; not the female type), feels like a child's toy, is stiff, and yet&nbsp;captures one of your favourite characters in a popular movie/show/series. &nbsp;I'd like to say this guy checks all the boxes but that would make it sound like it's a good thing, and this Cap isn't all that great. &nbsp;He does have the shield launcher that he can actually hold and fire like a bazooka though. &nbsp;Oh wait, that's not a good thing either.</span><br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Value:</span></b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AE5dx-iQaF0/UBbzPPGcKPI/AAAAAAAAIac/xWwkwINk2-c/s1600/IMG_1917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AE5dx-iQaF0/UBbzPPGcKPI/AAAAAAAAIac/xWwkwINk2-c/s320/IMG_1917.JPG" width="293" /></a></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jCYl96C2M3I/UBbzhbJpMJI/AAAAAAAAIbE/sOGAOK2iCQM/s1600/IMG_1933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="108" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jCYl96C2M3I/UBbzhbJpMJI/AAAAAAAAIbE/sOGAOK2iCQM/s200/IMG_1933.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">6"</span><span style="color: #38761d;">: 9/10</span></b> - Sure, he could've come with a gun or two, but 6-inch Cap has all that tremendous articulation and the detailed tooling. &nbsp;Throw in some careful, albeit minimal, painting and an inter-connectable figure stand/base and it's very hard to say that he's not worth the S$28 (US$22.50) I paid, which includes shipping. &nbsp;The fact that he's a Walmart Exclusive makes him all the more valuable--I would've been happy to pay up to the S$10 more I can find him for here in Singapore if Wes had not jumped in so quickly to snag Cap for me!<br /><br /><span style="background-color: #b6d7a8;"><b><span style="color: red;">3.75"</span><span style="color: #38761d;">: 7/10 </span></b>- No that I think of it, I'm not sure if he's worth getting at retail for the S$19.90 (US$16) I paid. &nbsp;For S$10 more, I managed to get 6" Cap. &nbsp;Hmm.</span><br /><span style="background-color: #b6d7a8;"><br /></span><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1JTPirDvyL0/UBb0CJzMCWI/AAAAAAAAIcM/aT1Jp9gXwYU/s1600/IMG_1603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: #b6d7a8;"><img border="0" height="229" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1JTPirDvyL0/UBb0CJzMCWI/AAAAAAAAIcM/aT1Jp9gXwYU/s320/IMG_1603.JPG" width="320" /></span></a><span style="background-color: #b6d7a8;">The thing is that he's rather hard to find in these parts. &nbsp;All of the movie costume figures are. &nbsp;The pegs here continue to have Sword Spike, Battle Hammer, and Shock Strike Thor, <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2012/06/avengers-375-super-shield-ultimates.html">Super Shield</a></span>&nbsp;and&nbsp;Rocket Grenade Cap, Heavy Artillery and Reactron Armor Iron Man. While I wouldn't say stores are loaded with these (since the line moved well at retail), they are the peg-warmers. &nbsp;3.75" Cap is definitely not one of them, so I guess being movie accurate has its value to the general public and to kids as well.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Overall:</b></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qjAKn_pQpEE/UBbyrAMEn7I/AAAAAAAAIZE/YBbabGE3XmM/s1600/Can%2527t+Wait.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qjAKn_pQpEE/UBbyrAMEn7I/AAAAAAAAIZE/YBbabGE3XmM/s400/Can%2527t+Wait.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><b><span style="color: red;">6":</span><span style="color: #38761d;"> 9.25/10</span></b> - Maybe even as recently as a year ago I was more in favour of DC Universe 6-inchers because the line had been great. &nbsp;Also, I was into the Marvel Universe 3.75" line, so to start buying into the 6" Marvel Legends line seemed a bit repetitive for me. &nbsp;I was only ever going to get the movie 6-inchers, you see, because I felt they were more unique and invariably linked to the time when their movies were released. &nbsp;But with the death of DCUC and if Marvel keeps making 6" figure the way they've made their movie Caps (I have the <u><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2012/04/captain-america-first-avenger-6-captain.html">First Avenger Movie Cap</a></u> as well), I'm gonna have no choice but to start an ML collection. &nbsp;I say collection but I really wanna play the hell outta every Marvel 6-incher I get, just like The Avengers Cap here. &nbsp;Why? &nbsp;Because they are just that damn good. &nbsp;AllI have to do is wait for the characters I really want, like the recently SDCC-revealed Ultimates Cap. &nbsp;(Yes, I am an Ultimates freak, thank you.) &nbsp;;)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1t-laX3-3rM/UBbzkWnti-I/AAAAAAAAIbM/lJFLIorKgZU/s1600/Vergence.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1t-laX3-3rM/UBbzkWnti-I/AAAAAAAAIbM/lJFLIorKgZU/s640/Vergence.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="background-color: #b6d7a8;"><b><span style="color: red;">3.75":</span><span style="color: #38761d;"> 7/10</span></b> - A straight 7 is what this guy is simply because he's just slightly better than&nbsp;<i>meh</i>. &nbsp;In every category&nbsp;there's potential that goes unfulfilled--A good sculpt that's painted well but could be slightly more proportionate; A couple of good PoAs in the hips and the knees but no articulation whatsoever in the wrists, chest, and ankles; a good accessory in a well-painted shiny shield but no other way to use it than held in his hand via the stiff plastic straps; a "Big Friggin' Gun"/shield launcher. &nbsp;Really. &nbsp;Keep the launcher, give us some PoAs. &nbsp;So yeah, all in all not a bad figure, but hardly great either.</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4BUomnA3pQs/UBb0Ud0HijI/AAAAAAAAIc0/bkrQLf6vepE/s1600/IMG_1670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4BUomnA3pQs/UBb0Ud0HijI/AAAAAAAAIc0/bkrQLf6vepE/s640/IMG_1670.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--C9fww5tDD0/UBcKOkFTetI/AAAAAAAAIfs/U1T7QBagWKY/s1600/Shwarma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--C9fww5tDD0/UBcKOkFTetI/AAAAAAAAIfs/U1T7QBagWKY/s640/Shwarma.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br />http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/07/whats-in-wes-box-avengers-6-captain.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-4170568901402267071Sat, 28 Jul 2012 16:52:00 +00002012-07-29T00:52:45.930+08:003.75ChitauriFall of CybertronTF UniverseThe AvengersTransformersChase Sighting: New Stuff hits the Shelves!I was in the local Toys R Us near my office today looking for Transformer generations Wheelie before having to put in a shift for Olympics news coverage. &nbsp;I promised 3B of <a href="http://www.3bstoyhive.com/">3B's Toy Hive</a> that I'd snag one for him since I'd seen Wheelie there a few days before.<div><br /></div><div>But this was all that greeted me:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zF5-NRMuo5k/UBPiMOqr3aI/AAAAAAAAIWo/lAUxHCY74Pw/s1600/2012-07-28+14.25.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zF5-NRMuo5k/UBPiMOqr3aI/AAAAAAAAIWo/lAUxHCY74Pw/s400/2012-07-28+14.25.56.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><span style="background-color: white;">Generations Springer, Cliffjumper, and Swerve.</span></div><div><br /></div><div>Where was wheelie?!?</div><div><br /></div><div>There were a good three or four of him the last time I was there. &nbsp;From what I'd seen, he looked like a re-coloured Jazz with a new Wheelie head. &nbsp;He was way too big for my own taste, so I passed.</div><div><br /></div><div>But this time, he was missing! &nbsp;Obviously people like him much better than I do. &nbsp;So sorry, 3B! &nbsp;I'll continue to hunt one down for ya!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a name='more'></a></div><div>Also, these had come out the week before:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lB5AuPtK0-w/UBPiBshzpFI/AAAAAAAAIWg/5WpvJicG7PU/s1600/2012-07-28+14.26.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lB5AuPtK0-w/UBPiBshzpFI/AAAAAAAAIWg/5WpvJicG7PU/s320/2012-07-28+14.26.28.jpg" width="240" /></a>Fall of Cybertron, Optimus Prime and Jazz. (And Shockwave who, like Wheelie, was missing. &nbsp;I guess people love him too. ;])</div><div><br /></div><div>I had previously wanted to get whatever new Optimus Primes that Hasbro came out with. &nbsp;But when the previous War for Cybertron Deluxe Prime was released, I was disappointed with the pinkish red plastic and his small size of compared to others (hint, hint Bumblebee...Not that I dislike the 'Bee or anything. &nbsp;I just can't stand that Optimus would even be near the same size as 'Bee or the other way around.)</div><div><br /></div><div>This Prime, while cast in a good red plastic, still looked small. &nbsp;He also looks like he's had one too many burgers. &nbsp;Check out that paunch! &nbsp;Hah!</div><div><br /></div><div>But the real treat was over at the Marvel pegs, Lookie here what I found!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bcpZTLxxfus/UBPid2MY3xI/AAAAAAAAIW4/PhCMmutpZ7A/s1600/2012-07-28+14.18.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bcpZTLxxfus/UBPid2MY3xI/AAAAAAAAIW4/PhCMmutpZ7A/s320/2012-07-28+14.18.46.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jHRsbweToXo/UBPiVnrdvII/AAAAAAAAIWw/AenTzfFszyc/s1600/2012-07-28+14.20.51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jHRsbweToXo/UBPiVnrdvII/AAAAAAAAIWw/AenTzfFszyc/s320/2012-07-28+14.20.51.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>It's a "Deluxe figure" Cosmic Chariot Invasion Chitauri!</div><div><br /></div><div>I was gonna snag at least two of the 4 hanging on the pegs except</div><div><br /></div><div>1) It was priced at S$34.90 (US$29. Yep.)</div><div><br /></div><div>2) The poor guy has got no elbow and knee articulation!</div><div><br /></div><div>The sculpt looks fantastic for both the chariot and the figure itself. &nbsp;Heck, the sled looks so cool it even has pegs for the feet. &nbsp;(And here I'm thinking about the many fight scenes in The Avengers movie.) But I just couldn't bring myself to pay that much for a poorly articulated figure. &nbsp;I also knew there was a singles packed figure in Wave 4 of The Avengers 3.75 inch line so I decided to be patient. &nbsp;That Cosmic Chariot, though. &nbsp;man, it almost got me...</div><div><br /></div><div>Well, that's all from me for now. &nbsp;Sorry for the time between posts. &nbsp;I do have a couple of good reviews on the way and I promise they'll be up soon. &nbsp; so I guess for now...Watch this space! ;P</div>http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/07/chase-sighting-new-stuff-hits-shelves.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-7155612918495793045Thu, 19 Jul 2012 09:47:00 +00002012-07-19T17:47:49.982+08:003.75-inchAction Figure ComicsHulkMarvel UniverseMarvel Universe 3.75" Series 4 Hulk! (007)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DCEsCj33vkc/UAcTtWzMmDI/AAAAAAAAISk/Apr2_JWBttE/s1600/IMG_1812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DCEsCj33vkc/UAcTtWzMmDI/AAAAAAAAISk/Apr2_JWBttE/s320/IMG_1812.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>This is the figure that all Hulk fans have been waiting for! &nbsp;Or at least the Hulk fans who like figures in the 3.75" scale and don't like the sculpt for the line's releases so far in <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2009/04/big-green-3-34-action.html">Classic Hulk</a>, <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2009/11/marvel-secret-wars-hulk-and-cyclops.html">Secret Wars Hulk</a>, <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2009/11/christmas-colours.html">Red Hulk</a>&nbsp;(old rating system)&nbsp;and Grey Hulk. &nbsp;There's also Avengers 3-Pack Hulk, which is a first-ish appearance look on a reliable big buck, but he's almost a different character altogether.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tku3PvwD070/UAcTy_hQzrI/AAAAAAAAISs/gq0qqorvDlc/s1600/IMG_1813.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tku3PvwD070/UAcTy_hQzrI/AAAAAAAAISs/gq0qqorvDlc/s320/IMG_1813.JPG" width="240" /></a>Then there's <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2011/02/marvel-universe-375-world-war-hulk.html">World War Hulk</a>, who hit the right spot but is far from your classic-looking, Gamma irradiated, cuddly giant with torn stretchy pants.<br /><br />I didn't like the head sculpt of the classic Green&nbsp;Goliath&nbsp;like most people (ditto with the repainted Grey Hulk variant), but I kinda dug the Secret Wars head sculpt with that body. &nbsp;The neon-like green they moulded that figure with was an eyesore to some though. &nbsp;And Red Hulk isn't really our dear, sweet Dr Bruce Banner at all. (He had a great head sculpt though.)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e9Par4JiMSM/UAeb5Ev7gtI/AAAAAAAAITs/o1yH0PNUxao/s1600/IMG_1846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e9Par4JiMSM/UAeb5Ev7gtI/AAAAAAAAITs/o1yH0PNUxao/s320/IMG_1846.JPG" width="240" /></a>So this figure was an eventual must-produce for Hasbro. &nbsp;And I'm glad to say they made it a must-have for us fans too despite they long wait.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oCkZ1Bovy7M/UAcT9YY7RHI/AAAAAAAAITI/NP75WWFzIc4/s1600/IMG_1837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oCkZ1Bovy7M/UAcT9YY7RHI/AAAAAAAAITI/NP75WWFzIc4/s200/IMG_1837.JPG" width="200" /></a>In fact, I'm sure they were deliberately taking the time in doing this, milking the success of the extremely popular <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2011/02/marvel-universe-375-world-war-hulk.html">World War Hulk</a> figure&nbsp;and of course, the recent <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2012/04/avengers-375-gamma-smash-hulk.html">Avengers movie Hulk</a>. &nbsp;Because of these two things, any 3.75" Marvel Universe fan will probably want this Hulk, and that's on top of those of us who wanted him anyway the first time he was <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2011/07/sdcc-first-look-marvel-universe.html">revealed at last year's San Diego Comic Con 2011</a>!<br /><br />Funny thing about this Hulk is that he's got no name other than "Hulk". &nbsp;No Gamma Smash or Classic or Avengers or even a colour. &nbsp;Since it's Hasbro's second go at the classic mainstream character, he's technically Hulk 2.0. &nbsp;But I think I'll call him..."Worth the Wait" Hulk! (Or WtW Hulk for short. &nbsp;Hah!)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-li6DXtXIjd0/UAcT1gELKyI/AAAAAAAAIS0/rb40rD_Tnsk/s1600/IMG_1814.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-li6DXtXIjd0/UAcT1gELKyI/AAAAAAAAIS0/rb40rD_Tnsk/s640/IMG_1814.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xk8A6gEpUoA/UAcUA2O3esI/AAAAAAAAITQ/U_iIqQWfmaY/s1600/IMG_1838.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xk8A6gEpUoA/UAcUA2O3esI/AAAAAAAAITQ/U_iIqQWfmaY/s320/IMG_1838.JPG" width="294" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Sculpt. &nbsp;Hulk's proportions are great and he's the best Hulk yet along with WW Hulk, which is very similar in sculpt. &nbsp;What's refreshing is that Hulk isn't top heavy--his chest and arms aren't insanely big compared to the rest of him (or anyone else). &nbsp;His legs and feet are just as big or in some parts even bigger than his arms--and this works!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mEed4m7TajQ/UAecR0RizyI/AAAAAAAAIUs/aIaeOMq_-Rg/s1600/IMG_1856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mEed4m7TajQ/UAecR0RizyI/AAAAAAAAIUs/aIaeOMq_-Rg/s320/IMG_1856.JPG" width="240" /></a>Hulk's also got new parts sculpted to match the existing ones they re-used from World War Hulk (torso, neck, right arm). &nbsp;These include a new head, left arm, lower torso groin area, legs, and feet. &nbsp;Now that's a lot of new parts!&nbsp; They may not be noticeable at first glance, but they're there and I'm glad they've made the effort to sculpt them,"ordinary" as they may look. :)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZJUpExClO8/UAeb9PjwtXI/AAAAAAAAIT0/qHLJ48euPBU/s1600/IMG_1849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZJUpExClO8/UAeb9PjwtXI/AAAAAAAAIT0/qHLJ48euPBU/s320/IMG_1849.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like: </span></b>The Articulation with a capital "A". &nbsp;This is how a large figure should be done. &nbsp;Bravo!<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That Hulk has nice leathery textured skin! &nbsp;His pants also have cloth-like tooling and even the knee joints haven't been left out! <br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0uAh0UVyqaI/UAecOCP582I/AAAAAAAAIUk/GU6joO6JwLc/s1600/IMG_1855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0uAh0UVyqaI/UAecOCP582I/AAAAAAAAIUk/GU6joO6JwLc/s320/IMG_1855.JPG" width="212" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The way they've handled the tooling of his torn pants, especially around the knee joint. &nbsp;His knees are left bare with the cloth torn all around. &nbsp;He's also got pant seams down the sides as well as a seam for his zipper.<br /><br />As for the wear and especially the tear, he's got two back packets, with the right one half-torn off.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EkDR9yDOj4Y/UAeb1H-ZpVI/AAAAAAAAITk/8m9CGfVJhCw/s1600/IMG_1842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EkDR9yDOj4Y/UAeb1H-ZpVI/AAAAAAAAITk/8m9CGfVJhCw/s320/IMG_1842.JPG" width="242" /></a>There's also sculpted tear around the hem of the legs as well as around the waist.&nbsp; There's also a burst button at the top of the zipper, with a slight gap that should be showing green skin underneath. &nbsp;But this hasn't been picked out in colour--we don't want a R-rated Hulk now, would we? <br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-voXdReZGk6A/UAecXNoux2I/AAAAAAAAIU0/jKpafSzzxtQ/s1600/IMG_1858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-voXdReZGk6A/UAecXNoux2I/AAAAAAAAIU0/jKpafSzzxtQ/s320/IMG_1858.JPG" width="240" /></a>Well, we don't, right?...<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> New, deeper leg balls. &nbsp;These solve the problem of MU legs popping off all the time and eventually becoming a loose fit. &nbsp;It can still pop off, but you'd have to really twit the joint right to the extreme for that to happen now.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-df3rJJTqM8A/UAeci7i7M0I/AAAAAAAAIVM/WZjUzvS_v9U/s1600/IMG_1865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-df3rJJTqM8A/UAeci7i7M0I/AAAAAAAAIVM/WZjUzvS_v9U/s320/IMG_1865.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> The new leg balls restrict the sideways movement of the leg, so much so that the legs can only be raised sideways maybe 30 degrees tops. &nbsp;Thank goodness for the thigh swivels, so you can rotate the entire upper leg segment inside out on the new leg ball without it popping off, and then swivel the thigh so that you can get the angle on the legs and bend on the knees you want. &nbsp;I can see how many people might be quite bothered that they have to fiddle with the joint to get maximum movement. &nbsp;And there's nothing like the Avengers figures' hinge/ball legs joints here--those move freely without the need to finagle.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ruaK7lYz32w/UAecDY6RGKI/AAAAAAAAIUM/j6X_wg4qpF0/s1600/IMG_1852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ruaK7lYz32w/UAecDY6RGKI/AAAAAAAAIUM/j6X_wg4qpF0/s200/IMG_1852.JPG" width="155" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YYu2wLLGjrY/UAecCEL03II/AAAAAAAAIUE/bGTm8dpMRmw/s1600/IMG_1851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YYu2wLLGjrY/UAecCEL03II/AAAAAAAAIUE/bGTm8dpMRmw/s200/IMG_1851.JPG" width="153" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--wNxx3A65bk/UAecFdqBjFI/AAAAAAAAIUU/Y2WG0W5d_b0/s1600/IMG_1853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--wNxx3A65bk/UAecFdqBjFI/AAAAAAAAIUU/Y2WG0W5d_b0/s200/IMG_1853.JPG" width="148" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aXJzyMLCSws/UAecKjd3pqI/AAAAAAAAIUc/JPy1VZ3sOj0/s1600/IMG_1854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aXJzyMLCSws/UAecKjd3pqI/AAAAAAAAIUc/JPy1VZ3sOj0/s200/IMG_1854.JPG" width="191" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bliNIt27ayA/UAecbdiXPYI/AAAAAAAAIU8/teDvC535-mg/s1600/IMG_1859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bliNIt27ayA/UAecbdiXPYI/AAAAAAAAIU8/teDvC535-mg/s320/IMG_1859.JPG" width="280" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The head. &nbsp;It's the same size as WW Hulk's and has the same features. &nbsp;So yeah, it's basically the same guy. (Really? &nbsp;Really? &nbsp;I question myself sometimes. &nbsp;:P) &nbsp;The growl/grimace is excellent too, with the teeth and eyes picked out really well. &nbsp;The green skin also gets a nice dark wash just like the rest of his skin. But the best part? &nbsp;The head is mounted on a neck hinge with a ball-joint on top and enjoys a full range of motion--his chin can touch his chest, he can look up and also tilt his head--and these are the things lots of figures struggle to do.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQ1YvtLtup0/UAecnGgyYiI/AAAAAAAAIVU/_QeeA2yXcpo/s1600/IMG_1868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQ1YvtLtup0/UAecnGgyYiI/AAAAAAAAIVU/_QeeA2yXcpo/s320/IMG_1868.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Same sculpt? Very close, but not really!</td></tr></tbody></table>One small thing though--his head is&nbsp;slightly&nbsp;flat from the side. &nbsp;But this is partially hidden by the thick neck covering up for the areas behind his jaw and under his hair on the back of his head. &nbsp;Anyhow,&nbsp;<span style="background-color: white;">I wouldn't sacrifice the fantastic neck articulation for a fuller head.</span><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-34B3KLZL2sM/UAece2DsuwI/AAAAAAAAIVE/d5irsqswn5s/s1600/IMG_1863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-34B3KLZL2sM/UAece2DsuwI/AAAAAAAAIVE/d5irsqswn5s/s320/IMG_1863.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That Hulk comes without any accessories. &nbsp;That "collector's mini card"? &nbsp;That's just a neat bit of cardboard packaging. &nbsp;Sure, we can do without Fury Files. &nbsp;We can do without armour cards. &nbsp;(Not that Hulk would have any, but just sayin'...) We can even do without figure stands. &nbsp;So perhaps some cloth goods? &nbsp;<i>Nah, Hulk not need any clothes.</i> &nbsp;How about an interchangeable head? &nbsp;<i>Hmm...Cool but Hulk like handsome face.</i> &nbsp;Interchangeable hands? &nbsp;<i>Now </i>that<i> hulk like. &nbsp;Then Hulk can smash, Hulk can grab, Hulk can smash then grab then smash then grab then pick some flowers. &nbsp;Ahh...</i><br /><h3> <span style="background-color: white;">RATINGS</span></h3><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P9-Fp2Dj0eY/UAcTlEhCsQI/AAAAAAAAISU/fnMSKBJTCww/s1600/Complexion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P9-Fp2Dj0eY/UAcTlEhCsQI/AAAAAAAAISU/fnMSKBJTCww/s400/Complexion.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">L to R: Series 1 Hulk, Series 4 Hulk, Avengers Movie Hulk</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Aesthetics: 9.5/10</span></b> - This Hulk is going to be hard to beat for a long, long time. &nbsp;From his great sculpt and the highly detailed texture on every inch of his body, to the sharp paint for his face and the dark wash on his skin and pants, this Hulk is one of the best-looking ever in all scales. &nbsp;Heck, even his toes and toenails are individually sculpted and the soles of his feet have texture!<br /><br />Though this Hulk is&nbsp;definitely&nbsp;way less chunky than the original buck they used for the Series 1 release, he stands just as tall. &nbsp;But where the original had the weirdest proportions, this Hulk is a model for not just proportion, but the right amount of muscle and the correct level of intensity of his face.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2YzmxRhpWSE/UAcUFB_iigI/AAAAAAAAITY/wXL_RxQ3IFA/s1600/IMG_1839.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2YzmxRhpWSE/UAcUFB_iigI/AAAAAAAAITY/wXL_RxQ3IFA/s320/IMG_1839.JPG" width="240" /></a>If only Hasbro had put this much effort into the sculpt of the Avengers' <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2012/04/avengers-375-gamma-smash-hulk.html">Gamma Smash Hulk</a>!<br /><br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Poseability: 9/10 </span></b>- This is one of the best things about Hulk right next to his awesome sculpt.&nbsp; He's go the improved leg ball joints mentioned above to go with recent additions to the MU large figure PoA arsenal--thigh cuts, double hinge knees, and the ball-hinge head.&nbsp; But there are a couple of drawbacks, though.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zz6-qg8oWhw/UAcTo5AedKI/AAAAAAAAISc/cJ3KNH97QkE/s1600/Hulk+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zz6-qg8oWhw/UAcTo5AedKI/AAAAAAAAISc/cJ3KNH97QkE/s320/Hulk+Art.jpg" width="320" /></a>Firstly, he can't close his arms in front of his chest too much because his massively ripped chest gets in the way of his shoulders.&nbsp;&nbsp; Secondly, he's got no gripping hands, which on a basic "smash" level, Hulk doesn't need, really. &nbsp;But compared to World War Hulk, I realized that gripping hands means holding things means access to more poses--holding (of course), lifting, grappling. &nbsp;But you know what? &nbsp;Giving this classic Hulk a gripping hand is just a heat and pop away, since the WW Hulk right hand is otherwise a plain ol' green gripping fist!<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Fun: 9.5/10</span></b> - A good-looking Hulk that can pose?&nbsp; Sign me up!&nbsp; Oh yeah, I already bought the guy! &nbsp;Well then, sign me up for another! &nbsp;;P<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5ifWNIHWDr0/UAecshF3zfI/AAAAAAAAIVg/o9P-MA2avyM/s1600/IMG_1873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5ifWNIHWDr0/UAecshF3zfI/AAAAAAAAIVg/o9P-MA2avyM/s320/IMG_1873.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Large figures that have excellent articulation are never dull, but my repeating that line for every large figure I review surely is! ;P &nbsp;The upside though--I get to pit large figure vs large figure for many a photo.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JEbMQaujwac/UAecwil7RJI/AAAAAAAAIVo/uwyMrl5QCTQ/s1600/IMG_1874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JEbMQaujwac/UAecwil7RJI/AAAAAAAAIVo/uwyMrl5QCTQ/s320/IMG_1874.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Value: 8/10</span> </b>- No stand, no Fury Files, no accessories.&nbsp; But still, Hulk's large figure and has the best PoAs the line has to offer. &nbsp;They've also been improved upon, with corrections to the leg ball joints, with new parts in addition to great tooling--that's an "A"for effort for sure.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aDsGUrQCYIU/UAec0UM8FEI/AAAAAAAAIVw/hKQgwjvPWtA/s1600/IMG_1877.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aDsGUrQCYIU/UAec0UM8FEI/AAAAAAAAIVw/hKQgwjvPWtA/s320/IMG_1877.JPG" width="240" /></a>Still, I'd like to see Marvel Universe give us some interchangeable body parts. &nbsp;In Hulk's case, some grappling hands would be cool, while a pair of thunderclap hands would be the dream.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WvFtniZnaFI/UAec4PabviI/AAAAAAAAIV4/aKZFb8cs8rk/s1600/IMG_1878.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WvFtniZnaFI/UAec4PabviI/AAAAAAAAIV4/aKZFb8cs8rk/s320/IMG_1878.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Overall: 9.25/10 - I'd Take and Arm and a Leg (non-plastic) For This Figure!</span></b> - Hulk looks great, plays great and is one of the iconic characters of the Marvel Universe. &nbsp;This means he's a must-have! &nbsp;But fret not if you haven't seen this guy in your area--he's due for a repack in one of this year's cases after his initial release. &nbsp;He's also available in Hulk vs Wolverine Comic 2-pack or as the Red Hulk in the <a href="http://www.onepercase.net/2012/06/marvel-universe-heroic-age-heroes-team.html">Heroic Age Team Pack</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IYmThBS_HSg/UAedANY4VtI/AAAAAAAAIWI/OydPKtbFgsc/s1600/IMG_1883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IYmThBS_HSg/UAedANY4VtI/AAAAAAAAIWI/OydPKtbFgsc/s640/IMG_1883.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yaWGrBKghtQ/UAedDC5kLVI/AAAAAAAAIWQ/fuT_zYWTn98/s1600/Good+Barber.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yaWGrBKghtQ/UAedDC5kLVI/AAAAAAAAIWQ/fuT_zYWTn98/s640/Good+Barber.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hulk vs Classic Hulk: The Secret To Getting Ripped</td></tr></tbody></table>http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/07/marvel-universe-375-series-4-hulk-007.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)41tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-2876445111247328540Thu, 12 Jul 2012 18:35:00 +00002012-07-13T02:35:02.969+08:003.75-inchAction Figure ComicsMarvel UniverseProfessor XX-MenMarvel Universe 3.75" Series 4 Professor X (022)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aetoYNAGd9U/T_8OxU0Th-I/AAAAAAAAIOU/Y0OHMGef170/s1600/IMG_1738.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aetoYNAGd9U/T_8OxU0Th-I/AAAAAAAAIOU/Y0OHMGef170/s320/IMG_1738.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>The first time ever I saw a pic of this figure was a couple months back on eBay--and his price was something like US$100 and climbing. &nbsp;Chuck eventually sold for for a whopping one hundred and twenty-seven (or so) big ones. &nbsp;Immediately I thought either someone on the inside got their hands on a few figures and snuck them out months ahead of their release, and/or Charlie X here was going to be so shortpacked people didn't care and were willing to pay US127 &nbsp;for him.<br /><br />No more Prof X appeared for sale on the auction site and I never saw him again, until...<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2qz5MYHllEM/T_8O2cu8wuI/AAAAAAAAIOc/hKslA8igEVo/s1600/IMG_1739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2qz5MYHllEM/T_8O2cu8wuI/AAAAAAAAIOc/hKslA8igEVo/s320/IMG_1739.JPG" width="240" /></a>I walked into one of the specialty stores at China Square Central a couple weeks back and saw him right there on the shelf, flanked by Beta Ray Bill and The Hulk. &nbsp;Needless to say I grabbed them up. &nbsp;They each were tagged at S$30 a pop, that's about S$10 more than Marvel Universe retail, so I didn't want to get them all. &nbsp;By process of elimination, I put Beta Ray Bill back--great sculpt, but he was the character that I knew the least about, and was most likely to be seen again, I thought. &nbsp;I was then also about to chuck Chuck until the wife said, "I think you should get the professor. &nbsp;He's rarer, isn't he?" &nbsp;I couldn't keep my mind off the eBay auction price, so I agreed and put The Hulk back on his perch. &nbsp;I was now the proud owner of the most powerful plastic mind in Marvel Universe history!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x9MD3x8EUd4/T_8O6PeRo-I/AAAAAAAAIOk/KBlewuG0Zf4/s1600/IMG_1740.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x9MD3x8EUd4/T_8O6PeRo-I/AAAAAAAAIOk/KBlewuG0Zf4/s320/IMG_1740.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I returned later to get The Hulk for the Rangerlord, but that's another story. Of course, I did find Hulk again the following week for cheaper and got one for myself. &nbsp;But that's also for another review.<br /><br />Charles, Charlie, Chuck, the Chazz. &nbsp;Whatever you call him, Professor X is a darn good figure. &nbsp;And he's a great example of how Hasbro has been able to re-use resources to a refreshingly new effect!<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NEtaqi30R-U/T_8O9lTmtQI/AAAAAAAAIOs/qSq29zoXLcM/s1600/IMG_1770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NEtaqi30R-U/T_8O9lTmtQI/AAAAAAAAIOs/qSq29zoXLcM/s200/IMG_1770.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C5T2W9SjkOc/T_8PBf2_XtI/AAAAAAAAIO0/ycYZ3rQ7-t0/s1600/IMG_1783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C5T2W9SjkOc/T_8PBf2_XtI/AAAAAAAAIO0/ycYZ3rQ7-t0/s320/IMG_1783.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XHeHq087AyQ/T_8PQBj8ieI/AAAAAAAAIPU/ljmsaxsEjQs/s1600/IMG_1784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XHeHq087AyQ/T_8PQBj8ieI/AAAAAAAAIPU/ljmsaxsEjQs/s200/IMG_1784.JPG" width="150" /></a><span style="background-color: #b6d7a8;"><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b>&nbsp;That kickass hover chair! &nbsp;It's so huge assembled that you wonder how they managed to fit it in the package--why, by splitting it down the middle, of course! &nbsp;You clip in together once out of the bubble. &nbsp;The chair is&nbsp;moulded&nbsp;in metallic yellow but is washed with orange to make it look less of a flat gold but yet more metallic.</span><br /><span style="background-color: #b6d7a8;"><br /></span><br /><span style="background-color: #b6d7a8;">They sculpted detail on Chuck's ride is also very impressive--comfy leather seats with some crinkle marks on the back rest. &nbsp;There's also a large black sphere they've used as a base. &nbsp;This seat will fit pretty much any regular sized Marvel Universe male and female character. &nbsp;There's plenty of leg room and Xavier sits nice and tall in it, coming to the same height as a standing MU male.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8drqM_TZdvI/T_8PFXjHJQI/AAAAAAAAIO8/4-_cATJe3_k/s1600/IMG_1788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8drqM_TZdvI/T_8PFXjHJQI/AAAAAAAAIO8/4-_cATJe3_k/s200/IMG_1788.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wJw-68Sf9fw/T_8PMqxGRAI/AAAAAAAAIPM/0iM5dhPe6V4/s1600/IMG_1790.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wJw-68Sf9fw/T_8PMqxGRAI/AAAAAAAAIPM/0iM5dhPe6V4/s200/IMG_1790.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xt7XG4Xvtt8/T_8RWdty2gI/AAAAAAAAIR0/P9Zd1YyuAII/s1600/IMG_1789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="155" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xt7XG4Xvtt8/T_8RWdty2gI/AAAAAAAAIR0/P9Zd1YyuAII/s200/IMG_1789.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The immaculate suit!&nbsp; It's the best in this scale I've seen.&nbsp; Though it's a one-piece "vest", it looks like he's very much wearing a jacket over his vest, shirt and tie.&nbsp; The neutral-ish blue is just about right for the 90s cartoon series (or what I remember of it).<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZF52lqonls/T_8PiEIbfRI/AAAAAAAAIP8/jgkdG7YHADE/s1600/IMG_1793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZF52lqonls/T_8PiEIbfRI/AAAAAAAAIP8/jgkdG7YHADE/s320/IMG_1793.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"The name's Bond, James 'X' Bond"</td></tr></tbody></table><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L6qJSclXBsM/T_8Po88Is_I/AAAAAAAAIQM/b6LkYOvBhwE/s1600/IMG_1795.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L6qJSclXBsM/T_8Po88Is_I/AAAAAAAAIQM/b6LkYOvBhwE/s200/IMG_1795.JPG" width="150" /></a>But make no mistake!--this isn't a new body at all. &nbsp;GI Joe fans will immediately recognize the <u style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.hisstank.com/gi-joe-news/gi-joe-movie-2/sdcc-2009-exclusive-gijoe-movie-destro-james-mccullen-8706/">2009 SDCC Exclusive Destro</a></u>, which is actually two figure: a medieval Destro in leather armour, and the movie Destro in a pinstripe suit. &nbsp;Professor X's body is that body moulded in blue.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DtGysVUnD54/T_8PlLEiymI/AAAAAAAAIQE/_E19Y_PZ12k/s1600/IMG_1794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="174" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DtGysVUnD54/T_8PlLEiymI/AAAAAAAAIQE/_E19Y_PZ12k/s200/IMG_1794.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That this being a GI Joe body means that it has the metal ball and socket joint legs. &nbsp;These are great in that they won;t ever pop off like the early Marvel Universe legs. &nbsp;But it also means they might suffer the same loosening over time/play that Joes do. &nbsp;So far so good for Chucky X. &nbsp;However, I haven't really posed him much on his legs at all!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sqle5-mCNBc/T_8PTjb8MwI/AAAAAAAAIPc/NjoWwUgrX08/s1600/IMG_1785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sqle5-mCNBc/T_8PTjb8MwI/AAAAAAAAIPc/NjoWwUgrX08/s320/IMG_1785.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The head sculpt.&nbsp; It's instantly&nbsp;recognizable&nbsp;as the one and only Charles Xavier. &nbsp;He's not just some random bald dude--his head is a little more pointy that the average Marvel Universe head but not as pointy as Absorbing Man. &nbsp;His eye brows are given the thin and long treatment, while his eye are painted&nbsp;bright&nbsp;and large.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cFfMOBcBHYA/T_8PbNT7zdI/AAAAAAAAIPs/7Wp3iJoU2ZU/s1600/IMG_1787.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cFfMOBcBHYA/T_8PbNT7zdI/AAAAAAAAIPs/7Wp3iJoU2ZU/s320/IMG_1787.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That his jacket is removable. &nbsp;It comes off like any other GI Joe vest and leave the sleeves (sculpted as part of the arms). &nbsp;What's nice though is that the tie underneath is also sculpted in full and is a separate piece from the body. &nbsp;This means that if you ever wanna do a custom Prof X in a sweater instead of a suit, all you need to do is remove the jacket and find him a soft goods pullover! &nbsp;Or like me, you can get your Mom to knit one. &nbsp;I'm kidding, I'd never ask my Mom to do that--she doesn't knit! :P<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UrgOBtH0TU8/T_8P-xMx_EI/AAAAAAAAIRE/pcnLmMVZWdA/s1600/IMG_1824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UrgOBtH0TU8/T_8P-xMx_EI/AAAAAAAAIRE/pcnLmMVZWdA/s200/IMG_1824.JPG" width="151" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3KXzaOR2UZo/T_8P9OciMTI/AAAAAAAAIQ4/7v40pzx6bPM/s1600/IMG_1823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3KXzaOR2UZo/T_8P9OciMTI/AAAAAAAAIQ4/7v40pzx6bPM/s200/IMG_1823.JPG" width="131" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SIOZiVJSBRk/T_8QAYb8m8I/AAAAAAAAIRI/GNBU1cdAlqE/s1600/IMG_1825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SIOZiVJSBRk/T_8QAYb8m8I/AAAAAAAAIRI/GNBU1cdAlqE/s200/IMG_1825.JPG" width="151" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That the X-Men know have arguably the most important member on their roster as a figure. &nbsp;I've got pretty much all the X-Men over the past few waves and 2-packs, but something always felt missing when I was posing them together. &nbsp;I didn't know it then, but easing The Chazz into the centre of the group really made it feel complete. &nbsp;And I finally know what version of the X-Men I want--the 90s cartoon version, of course! &nbsp;(<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZAhqEiq4cA">Cue 90s cartoon X-Men Theme!</a> &nbsp;Do it!)<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GEttdyoDjPI/T_8P7gawVgI/AAAAAAAAIQ0/EEiNF8h-mUs/s1600/IMG_1808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GEttdyoDjPI/T_8P7gawVgI/AAAAAAAAIQ0/EEiNF8h-mUs/s640/IMG_1808.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">X-Men made X-Large just for you! ;P</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h3> <b><u>RATINGS</u></b></h3><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P8ITRwpNbMM/T_8PXS46_YI/AAAAAAAAIPk/Id8rbGInuks/s1600/IMG_1786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P8ITRwpNbMM/T_8PXS46_YI/AAAAAAAAIPk/Id8rbGInuks/s320/IMG_1786.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Aesthetics: 9/10</span></b> - It's amazing how a simple thing like a chair and a head swap can change how you look at a figure. &nbsp;But it is an excellent chair and a superbly done head that nails down the look of Chucky Cheese X and makes him desirable.</div><div><br /></div><div>Paint-wise, they bothered to paint the cuffs white to match his shirt, which is very nice. And all the paint apps are done very neatly with no spills and splashes. &nbsp;His eyes and&nbsp;eyebrows&nbsp;are probably the one thing you might want to look out for, but I haven't a poorly painted head as yet on the handful of him I've spotted in specialty stores.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TGymc6Sjci4/T_8Pe-YfxOI/AAAAAAAAIP0/8KMjuFVCSRA/s1600/IMG_1792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TGymc6Sjci4/T_8Pe-YfxOI/AAAAAAAAIP0/8KMjuFVCSRA/s320/IMG_1792.JPG" width="240" /></a>Oh and there's one other thing that completes his look: the semi-open left hand with two fingers extended. &nbsp;It's his classic fingers-to-temple Xavier trademark hand pose when he's using his powers. (See first pic after the jump above!)</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MPVizlRa8Ao/T_8QCsEc1CI/AAAAAAAAIRU/WEkKUa7F35w/s1600/Professor+X+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MPVizlRa8Ao/T_8QCsEc1CI/AAAAAAAAIRU/WEkKUa7F35w/s320/Professor+X+Art.jpg" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Poseability: 8/10</span></b> - The chair is a big part of his high score here, which goes to show how a great accessory can make the figure. &nbsp;Articulation-wise, he's got GI Joe&nbsp;articulation&nbsp;instead of Marvel Universe&nbsp;articulation. &nbsp;This makes him more poseable than the old school first generation of MU figures, but less poseable than the new MU bodies with waists, thigh cuts and hinge/swivel knees. &nbsp;Then again, I suspect Chazz will be spending most of his time in his chair, so he's actually over-articulated. &nbsp;But that's never, ever a bad thing!&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Fun: 8.5/10</span></b> - There's so much joy in slowly putting together a team of your favourite super heroes in plastic form, but there's no joy like when it receives its most vital member and allows you to complete said team. &nbsp;In my case, it's the 90s cartoon X-Men. &nbsp;We still need a Rogue and a feral Beast, though. &nbsp;Having Chuck also makes we want to complete the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants from the same series--I realize only have five members of the BoEM!</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G0tVBsbV-SE/T_8QWd3ImwI/AAAAAAAAIRs/i1s82sxf5Eg/s1600/Starch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G0tVBsbV-SE/T_8QWd3ImwI/AAAAAAAAIRs/i1s82sxf5Eg/s400/Starch.jpg" width="400" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Value: 8/10</span></b> - I usually don't like to pay more than retail for my figures, but this wave was an exception. &nbsp;Officially, only Wave 17 has been released. &nbsp;But this figure comes in Wave 21, which is slated to also contain Jubilee and Blastaar as new figures. &nbsp;The Hulk, Ultimate Spiderman, Beta Ray Bill, and Bag Head Spiderman are fillers from the yet to be released Waves 18 to 20. &nbsp;And older figures in Psylock and Silver Surfer make up the rest of this particular case assortment.</div><div><br /></div><div>I can only guess at why Hasbro would release this wave ahead of the rest here in Singapore, but I think the figure is too popular to pass on. &nbsp;It hasn't been revealed as part of 2-pack and doesn't look like it will be re-issued in another wave but hey, this is Hasbro and they do a good job of producing enough to go around in this part of the world. &nbsp;But I didn't want to chance it, and I also wanted to review the figure as soon as I could, so I grabbed it first (with that $130 Ebay pricetag on my mind as well. &nbsp;Like I said: popularity! &nbsp;Lol.)</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3hnMiNolGHY/T_8QIRbwJ7I/AAAAAAAAIRk/GwH5L1uBEhE/s1600/Shoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3hnMiNolGHY/T_8QIRbwJ7I/AAAAAAAAIRk/GwH5L1uBEhE/s400/Shoes.jpg" width="400" /></a>In my mind, availability could be an issue with this figure down the road so I was willing to pay the price for it. &nbsp;Besides, it's also cool that you get a oversized hoverchair with a figure1 &nbsp;I think this has got to be the largest accessory to date that we're getting to date.</div><div><br /></div><div>Oh and there's also that very customizable body--Me and every customizer on the planet is probably after more of him for a certain movie Avengers custom. &nbsp;;) *Wink* *Wink* ;) Lol. (See below right at end if you didn't get it! ;P)<br /><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jgg86V3YauQ/T_8VKl-jB8I/AAAAAAAAISA/34Pkls12Pj8/s1600/IMG_1804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jgg86V3YauQ/T_8VKl-jB8I/AAAAAAAAISA/34Pkls12Pj8/s320/IMG_1804.JPG" width="228" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Da-dumdum,da-dumdum,da-dumdum...</td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IVEr_ZBUKBk/T_8VN25i43I/AAAAAAAAISI/xcp9JHPwVYM/s1600/IMG_1805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IVEr_ZBUKBk/T_8VN25i43I/AAAAAAAAISI/xcp9JHPwVYM/s320/IMG_1805.JPG" width="188" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">dada-dumDUM...</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Overall: 8.5/10 - It's a Keeper! (for sure)</span></b> - When it comes down to it, Professor X is an awesome figure made of recycled parts--and they didn't even do anything but give him a new head and a wheelchair with nor wheels on it! &nbsp;But herein lies the strength of the Marvel Universe line--Hasbro are masters of re-purposing their sculpts and making them look oh so new and&nbsp;irresistible. &nbsp;Whodathunk that a guy in a hover chair would sell for $127 bucks the first time he's seen online? &nbsp;And I'd wager that you won't see him much on the pegs too. &nbsp;He's too popular of a character with too cool of an accessory to let go by. &nbsp;the least one does will be to stop and admire him in package. &nbsp;Also, the base suit body is being released for the first time in retail and will make a good base for many a custom figure--Agent Coulsen, anyone? &nbsp;If you see him on the shelves at retail, you should grab him!<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bcwi--lz2GM/T_8PwQ1SkFI/AAAAAAAAIQc/BGLZbvNSCWg/s1600/IMG_1802.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="608" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bcwi--lz2GM/T_8PwQ1SkFI/AAAAAAAAIQc/BGLZbvNSCWg/s640/IMG_1802.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dadadadada-dum<i>dum</i>, DaDUM!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div>http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/07/marvel-universe-375-series-4-professor.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-3892044962048216906Wed, 04 Jul 2012 16:52:00 +00002012-07-05T00:52:41.034+08:003.75-inch5-PackCaptain AmericaIron ManMarvel UniverseSpidermanThorUltimate Gift SetWolverineMarvel Universe 3.75" Ultimate Gift Set 5-Pack<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pBQIr944LNg/T_RxhtY9liI/AAAAAAAAIMI/5JKBLXbiVzs/s1600/IMG_1715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pBQIr944LNg/T_RxhtY9liI/AAAAAAAAIMI/5JKBLXbiVzs/s320/IMG_1715.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The Rangerlord and I stumbled upon this great set of your classic heroes at OG Orchard one day. &nbsp;There were&nbsp;loads&nbsp;(more than 20) of this pack on sale at S$36.90 (down from $59.90), but no one was biting and they had been left lying there for a couple of months. &nbsp;So when we both came upon it I had said, "Yeah, there it is. &nbsp;The most expensive Captain America shield."<br /><br />I was referring to when I had first seen this 5-pack on sale and told the Rangerlord,&nbsp;prompting&nbsp;him to say he wasn't going to pay that amount for the one thing that most would want from the gift pack.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NNf5hu35kPI/T_RxmJX6VyI/AAAAAAAAIMQ/dR5w6nJ5G0k/s1600/IMG_1717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NNf5hu35kPI/T_RxmJX6VyI/AAAAAAAAIMQ/dR5w6nJ5G0k/s320/IMG_1717.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The shield is translucent, you see, and all the figures in the sets were very basic-looking re-releases. &nbsp;But more on that later. &nbsp;I wasn't really batting an eyelid at the pile, until RL turns one of the sets over and says, "Hey, they're $15 each."<br /><br />Suffice to say&nbsp;that caught my attention. &nbsp;We both snagged a set each after pouring through the boxes for a nicely painted Cap each. &nbsp;(And Thor. &nbsp;And Iron Man. &nbsp;And Spidey. &nbsp;Wolverine, not so much...Haha.)<br /><br />After passing the set by for so long, I was curious to see what it offered. &nbsp;So here's what I found!<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><b><span style="background-color: yellow; color: red;">Classic Iron Man</span></b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CY5cK94xmIQ/T_Rxp0oVHaI/AAAAAAAAIMY/7w1bQ21poKc/s1600/IMG_1759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CY5cK94xmIQ/T_Rxp0oVHaI/AAAAAAAAIMY/7w1bQ21poKc/s320/IMG_1759.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Um...yeah, not much in this department.Maybe that his eyes and mouth are painted black? &nbsp;But the way they've done it, he looks like he complaining about something so yeah...He does come with a blast effect, though it's of the Mountain Dew spray variety, which looks like something you could drink at best and liquid excrement at worst.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o0lqG9IaqiA/T_RxtW40GWI/AAAAAAAAIMg/2Br6hKNHEEc/s1600/IMG_1760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o0lqG9IaqiA/T_RxtW40GWI/AAAAAAAAIMg/2Br6hKNHEEc/s320/IMG_1760.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> Oh, where do I start? &nbsp;First up, the guy is entirely too skinny. &nbsp;This was the problem with most all of the Marvel Universe Iron Men released before the IM2 movie line took it to the next level. &nbsp;Here, the classic armour is completely the same as the initital MU release. &nbsp;But instead of metallic paint, he comes in plastic red and yellow, as in he looks plasticky and cheap. &nbsp;There are only two colours painted on--the yellow of the face, arc reactor, and hand/feet repulsors, and the black of his eyes and mouth. &nbsp;Yup, cheap!<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Rating: 5/10</span></b><br /><br />Compare with: <u><b><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2010/03/iron-man-2-classic-armor.html">Iron Man 2 Classic Iron Man</a></b></u><br /><br /><b><span style="background-color: cyan; color: red;">Spiderman</span></b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> At first glance, I kinda poopoo-ed on Spidey--the first thing I look for is the waist swivel because the very first release had both a waist swivel and a chest pivot. &nbsp;So naturally, I would assume the sculpt inferior if I didn't see a waist.. &nbsp;And I haven't seen one on a Spidey since the first MU waves.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8fw-lqalDmg/T_RzWW80XXI/AAAAAAAAINg/ul7WfTODchk/s1600/IMG_1762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8fw-lqalDmg/T_RzWW80XXI/AAAAAAAAINg/ul7WfTODchk/s320/IMG_1762.JPG" width="304" /></a></div>But a closer look out of the box showed me some good things: the "paint", of which he has none. &nbsp;All of his colour comes from a blue base body with the red and web design tampographed on. &nbsp;Even his eyes are done this way, and I like the slightly glossy effect! &nbsp;I also very much like the head, which I think is a brand new design. &nbsp;The eyes and nose are sculpted along with the chin, but his Spidey-peepers have a thick rim treatment reminiscent of the 80s and perhaps early 90s. &nbsp;Nice.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LePa86ZW6RE/T_RzZY3q5FI/AAAAAAAAINo/Npn2ecG5pUw/s1600/IMG_1763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LePa86ZW6RE/T_RzZY3q5FI/AAAAAAAAINo/Npn2ecG5pUw/s320/IMG_1763.JPG" width="209" /></a>Also, he comes with two nifty accessories--a mass of web sling and a web-bag. &nbsp;Both are nicely washed to bring out the web effect. &nbsp;The bag even has paint on a shirt sleeve, camera, and shoe.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That he's got the doomed-to-loosen-and-fall-off ball and socket legs. &nbsp;All of them do! &nbsp;Argh! &nbsp;Also, his Spidey symbols could be done better. &nbsp;the one in the front has a giant butt and looks like a tick, while the one on the back could have been great had the legs not been overly chunky. &nbsp;It kinda looks like a giant patch of red from far.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Rating: 7.5/10</span></b><br /><br />Compare with: <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2009/11/i-finally-freed-amazing-spiderman.html" style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Marvel Universe Spiderman</a>&nbsp;<span style="background-color: white;">(Old Rating System aka when I rated everything in the 9s. &nbsp;Lol.)</span><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><b style="background-color: white;">Captain America</b></span><br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That awesome&nbsp;translucent&nbsp;shield! &nbsp;Exclusive to this set, this is the full Marvel universe version compete with a clip for the wrists but not with the elastic from previous releases. &nbsp;It does have four catches where you could tie on elastic bands if you chose to do so, though.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VJ4maNJd8f0/T_Rx5LYEfrI/AAAAAAAAIM4/QKSTNdrFqLM/s1600/IMG_1766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VJ4maNJd8f0/T_Rx5LYEfrI/AAAAAAAAIM4/QKSTNdrFqLM/s320/IMG_1766.JPG" width="240" /></a>I also believe this is the first time Cap has been released in full classic uniform, with wings on his head and a black belt with a silver buckle--it's a good thing for Cap fans and completists, I guess. ;)<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CRB0RvA7Xzw/T_Rx8-jGoQI/AAAAAAAAINA/xnK96sHJWOM/s1600/IMG_1767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CRB0RvA7Xzw/T_Rx8-jGoQI/AAAAAAAAINA/xnK96sHJWOM/s320/IMG_1767.JPG" width="240" /></a>The one other great thing about Cap: his more-than-standard MU articulation. &nbsp;He's got a waist swivel as well as a chest pivot, and he's got boot-top swivels to go with hinge ankles.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b>&nbsp;Something&nbsp;about&nbsp;the wings&nbsp;on his head bug me. &nbsp;But I'm thinking it's more because I never liked this look. &nbsp;And to top it off, he's got a dress belt to hold up a pair of tights. &nbsp;<i>Tights</i>, people. &nbsp;Who does that? &nbsp;Lol.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Rating: 7/10</span></b><br /><br />Compare with: <b><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2011/06/captain-america-first-avenger-375-super.html">First Avenger Movie Captain America</a>, <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2011/11/marvel-universe-375-commander-steve.html">Marvel Universe Commander Rogers</a></b><br /><br /><span style="background-color: yellow; color: #b45f06;"><b>Wolverine</b></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yck6Cwac0dA/T_Rzf5dtRKI/AAAAAAAAIN4/ZZlt6glTpjw/s1600/IMG_1768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yck6Cwac0dA/T_Rzf5dtRKI/AAAAAAAAIN4/ZZlt6glTpjw/s320/IMG_1768.JPG" width="289" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #274e13;">Like:</span></b> Another Wolverine? &nbsp;Lol. &nbsp;To be fair, I'd want one in this set if I were just beginning my&nbsp;Marvel&nbsp;Universe collection. &nbsp;Seeing as how most of us aren't, this guy is just there for the kids. &nbsp;What do I like, though? &nbsp;Well, that he's the brown and yellow version...he's got a great chest pivot too...Ok, ok. &nbsp;His overall articulation is really pretty flexible. &nbsp;He does use the much dreaded lower torso of tubbiness that was initially used in one too many figures like Daredevil and Bullseye.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M2acEzLK9us/T_Rzi14GDPI/AAAAAAAAIOA/DxfMpzzFarc/s1600/IMG_1769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M2acEzLK9us/T_Rzi14GDPI/AAAAAAAAIOA/DxfMpzzFarc/s320/IMG_1769.JPG" width="253" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> &nbsp;The broad red belt with the gold buckle for starters. &nbsp;Again, a belt for tights? &nbsp;I don;t much fancy that his claws are straight either. &nbsp;The need to curve in a little at least. &nbsp;i also do wish his hands were closed--why&nbsp;does he need to be&nbsp;holding&nbsp;anything when he's claws are out? &nbsp;They also gave hima katana, which he'll never use.<br /><br /><b><span style="background-color: yellow; color: #38761d;">Rating: 6/10</span></b><br /><br />Compare with: <b><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2009/09/back-road-brawls-375-style.html">Back Road Brawl 2-Pack</a> </b>Wolverine (Again, the old rating system--don't believe it!!! ;P)<br /><br /><span style="background-color: black; color: yellow;"><b>Thor</b></span><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GFxxs3nQ5-A/T_RyHj5_COI/AAAAAAAAINY/b2irTDKs1uM/s1600/IMG_1764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GFxxs3nQ5-A/T_RyHj5_COI/AAAAAAAAINY/b2irTDKs1uM/s320/IMG_1764.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #274e13;">Like:</span></b> That they've re-issued this version from the <u>Classic Avengers 3-pack</u>. &nbsp;The body is the same sculpt as that and the Secret Wars release but the head was new when the did the 3-pack. &nbsp;And it looks like classic comic Thor, all right. &nbsp;I do so love the wings, which are moulded and left in pure white.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XtJSalE8b64/T_RzclRQFmI/AAAAAAAAINw/UOipFHAKH2M/s1600/IMG_1765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XtJSalE8b64/T_RzclRQFmI/AAAAAAAAINw/UOipFHAKH2M/s320/IMG_1765.JPG" width="273" /></a>He does so verily still come with Mjolnir, his cape is still removable and they've given him a less blonde treatment, with his hair, belt, and boots&nbsp;moulded&nbsp;a slightly deeper yellow than in the Classic 3-pack. &nbsp;He's also got a more-than-standard waist swivel and chest pivot, so that's nice.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aQMUgm3W8lY/T_R0WIDlsHI/AAAAAAAAIOI/T7b18b-NINk/s1600/Tapir.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aQMUgm3W8lY/T_R0WIDlsHI/AAAAAAAAIOI/T7b18b-NINk/s200/Tapir.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I am Tho--Ooh, ant!</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That they tried to give him the classic bare-sided look with paint. The problem here is that when you swivel his chest pivot, the paint goes out of alignment and he looks like a tapir. &nbsp;A soft rubber layer would've been nice a la <u><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2010/06/standing-tall-marvel-universe-hammer.html">Colossus</a></u>&nbsp;and a cloth good garment would have been perfect. &nbsp;But that definitely would've not costed out. &nbsp;Boy, we fans are a hard bunch to please, eh? ;)<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #274e13;">Rating: 7/10</span></b><br /><br />Compare with: <u><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2011/06/marvel-universe-375-classic-avengers-3.html"><b>Classic Avengers 3-Pack</b></a></u> Thor, <b><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2010/02/thor-and-enchantress.html"><u>Secret Wars 2-Pack</u> Thor</a>, <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2011/07/chase-pics-thor-sighting.html">Thor Sighting</a></b><br /><br /><b><span style="background-color: yellow; color: #274e13;">Overall Rating: 6.5/10</span></b> - An above average set with obvious flaws - meaning that there are better versions of these characters out there. &nbsp;But if classic is your thing, or if you know someone who's a fan of Marvel Universe but hasn't gotten their claws into some sweet 3.75" lovin' yet, this&nbsp;would&nbsp;do nicely. &nbsp;Eventually, they'd probably find higher quality versions of these characters and get them. &nbsp;If you have a nephew or niece who's into superheroes and wouldn't really care about which Avengers they get to bash against each other, so long as they <i>are</i> Avengers, this is again the set to get.<br /><br />And if you're a customizer/kit basher, you'd find some nice bits in the 5-pack too. &nbsp;personally, I got this set because of the Spidey and his web + bag and Cap's shield. &nbsp;The rest is custom-fodder, with things like heads, lower legs, torsos and arms likely to come in handy some time down the road. &nbsp;I might even be able to use these guys to bribe the kid as he gets older. &nbsp;Haha. &nbsp;:)http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/07/marvel-universe-375-ultimate-gift-set-5.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-4472932724252158326Sun, 01 Jul 2012 21:20:00 +00002012-07-02T05:41:19.111+08:003.75-inchAction Figure ComicsBlack WidowMarvel UniverseScarlett JohansenThe AvengersThe Avengers 3.75" Grapple Firing Black Widow<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rZeB2FAQMp4/T_C3UukHYRI/AAAAAAAAIIs/hw0KPyKGMfI/s1600/IMG_1653.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rZeB2FAQMp4/T_C3UukHYRI/AAAAAAAAIIs/hw0KPyKGMfI/s320/IMG_1653.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EuHITMlN9go/T_C3PmYMKZI/AAAAAAAAIIk/r5-WRZgKT4o/s1600/IMG_1652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EuHITMlN9go/T_C3PmYMKZI/AAAAAAAAIIk/r5-WRZgKT4o/s320/IMG_1652.JPG" width="240" /></a>The story of how I managed to find this extremely rare figure some 2 weeks back can be read <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2012/06/double-score.html">here</a>.<br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br /><span style="background-color: lime;">Amazingly, I've been accused of being a scalper for finding and buying a couple of this figure (one for the Rangerlord) and the others I picked up that day. &nbsp;Well guess what? &nbsp;I've opened and reviewed the figure like I do for all my stuff, so there!</span><br /><br />I do have to concede I was very lucky to find Black Widow. &nbsp;And I hope all of you hoping to find one manage to hunt one down at retail. &nbsp;On to the review! ;)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9mEFatiwZ6k/T_C3WRvsOQI/AAAAAAAAII0/2PDPFgaatzQ/s1600/IMG_1654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9mEFatiwZ6k/T_C3WRvsOQI/AAAAAAAAII0/2PDPFgaatzQ/s640/IMG_1654.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;"></span></b><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NUTiOIOQVGk/T_C3c8_Ig0I/AAAAAAAAIJE/TofR7OiUHfw/s1600/IMG_1671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NUTiOIOQVGk/T_C3c8_Ig0I/AAAAAAAAIJE/TofR7OiUHfw/s200/IMG_1671.JPG" width="100" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cMVpvV3my90/T_C4f_lA9vI/AAAAAAAAILc/5q90PnIGRgk/s1600/IMG_1730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cMVpvV3my90/T_C4f_lA9vI/AAAAAAAAILc/5q90PnIGRgk/s200/IMG_1730.JPG" width="151" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The head sculpt and paint. &nbsp;It's so good it was the first thing I noticed! &nbsp;They got her hair right, her face is great, and the flesh tone is smooth and clean too. &nbsp;Her eyebrows, eyes and lips are all done very sharply and I have to say I certainly wasn't expecting these sorts of standards on a figure, let alone a 3.75" female figure of an actress rendered for the first time in this scale. &nbsp;great job, Hasbro!<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The super articulation. &nbsp;She's got 25 points of articulation even without a chest joint. &nbsp;Still, would it have been that tough to give us a waist swivel? &nbsp;It's kinda bitter sweet that they went to all the trouble to give her legs with seven PoAs but a torso with zero!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iGJgwF02Iqs/T_C4aOh1jzI/AAAAAAAAILM/cBio7LD1Qbc/s1600/IMG_1728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iGJgwF02Iqs/T_C4aOh1jzI/AAAAAAAAILM/cBio7LD1Qbc/s200/IMG_1728.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gZbsEhrne4I/T_C4XvTbn2I/AAAAAAAAILE/d5o1PUmmtPM/s1600/IMG_1727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gZbsEhrne4I/T_C4XvTbn2I/AAAAAAAAILE/d5o1PUmmtPM/s200/IMG_1727.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D__y0sIpWBA/T_C4c2r9VwI/AAAAAAAAILU/7sAsqIis28Y/s1600/IMG_1729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D__y0sIpWBA/T_C4c2r9VwI/AAAAAAAAILU/7sAsqIis28Y/s200/IMG_1729.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w4jGyOjH4R0/T_C4qQcPnZI/AAAAAAAAIL8/0t3hcW3mzic/s1600/Widow+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w4jGyOjH4R0/T_C4qQcPnZI/AAAAAAAAIL8/0t3hcW3mzic/s320/Widow+Art.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> Despite the fantastic articulation, she's missing one important PoA: the chest hinge/pivot/waist swivel. &nbsp;Also, her head ball-joint is reduced to a swivel. &nbsp;Without these two what-I-like-to-call "central" joints, her poses end up being a lot less dramatic than they could be, whatever flexibility in her limbs. &nbsp;But maybe with my new-found status as <u><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2012/06/chase-customs-ultimate-captain-america.html">Padawan customizer</a></u>, I'll have to remedy this...imbalance to the Force...<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nyx_-gFngno/T_C32wsObiI/AAAAAAAAIJ8/a5KxcelAsYY/s1600/IMG_1681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nyx_-gFngno/T_C32wsObiI/AAAAAAAAIJ8/a5KxcelAsYY/s320/IMG_1681.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like: </span></b>The usable dual hip holsters! &nbsp;Both are attached to a simple belt that hangs on her hips but sits nicely on them. &nbsp;I'm glad they didn't glue this down because sometimes it ends up getting in the way of leg articulation. &nbsp;This way, you can pose Black Widow first, then push the belt down nicely into place. :)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xsgAmvqVszE/T_C3vNYvWHI/AAAAAAAAIJs/VgdsBwbvMVA/s1600/IMG_1679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xsgAmvqVszE/T_C3vNYvWHI/AAAAAAAAIJs/VgdsBwbvMVA/s320/IMG_1679.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That she comes with two handguns. &nbsp;It's nice to see some accessories on an Avengers figure--sure, they've all got their BFGs, but those are just for kids to increase the risk of shooting each other in the eye after buying the figure. &nbsp;Lol. &nbsp;I ignore these completely and ScarJo's "Grapple" here is no different. &nbsp;But just for your info, it's the same spring loaded BFG that comes with Fandral out of the Thor line from last year. &nbsp;And it ain't no grapple, it's a missile! ;P<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u2MDGWNXhsM/T_C3kBi49cI/AAAAAAAAIJU/LNiuYnj9xJE/s1600/IMG_1674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u2MDGWNXhsM/T_C3kBi49cI/AAAAAAAAIJU/LNiuYnj9xJE/s320/IMG_1674.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That while her right hand is molded to hold a gun properly with the trigger finger able to fit in the trigger guard, the left isn't.&nbsp; I really hate it when this happens.&nbsp; It makes her look like she doesn't know how to shoot with her left hand. &nbsp;And it's not like they gave her anything else to hold in it. :(<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-toD_1UiUxRA/T_C4me6sa-I/AAAAAAAAILs/tBMi3w1YliI/s1600/IMG_1733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="122" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-toD_1UiUxRA/T_C4me6sa-I/AAAAAAAAILs/tBMi3w1YliI/s200/IMG_1733.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That the guns are cast in really soft rubber!&nbsp; Safety standard? &nbsp;Perhaps. &nbsp;But if you're gonna swallow it, it won't matter how hard it is, right?&nbsp; If you're gonna toss it in someone's eye, it'll still hurt as much unless it's made of sponge or something, right?<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pq_C6HIENQs/T_C4nlGEpSI/AAAAAAAAIL0/lJC3wr7zjjA/s1600/IMG_1734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pq_C6HIENQs/T_C4nlGEpSI/AAAAAAAAIL0/lJC3wr7zjjA/s200/IMG_1734.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The tampographs of S.H.I.E.L.D logos on her shoulders, belt buckle, and zipper are really clear and bold! &nbsp;They're so tiny, they are easy to miss. &nbsp;But up close you can see how clean they've been done. &nbsp;Awesome!<br /><br /><h3> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KcMhr8JEANw/T_C4j5JSxyI/AAAAAAAAILk/CEZ3IWF4d_4/s1600/IMG_1732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KcMhr8JEANw/T_C4j5JSxyI/AAAAAAAAILk/CEZ3IWF4d_4/s320/IMG_1732.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><u>RATINGS</u></b></h3><b><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Aesthetics: 9.5/10</span></b> - Truly amazing ScarJo likeness. &nbsp;Even if it wasn't, it would be one heckuva knockout of a female figure. &nbsp;What's awesome is that the figure achieves this by not needing to have crazy comic proportions--Widow has a real ScarJo-like figure! &nbsp;Whodathunk the best Avengers movie figure would turn out to be a girl, and one with womanly proportions, at that? :P<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mr-Y-fbSWLs/T_C3rYR42uI/AAAAAAAAIJk/y1rJl2auVCY/s1600/IMG_1678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mr-Y-fbSWLs/T_C3rYR42uI/AAAAAAAAIJk/y1rJl2auVCY/s320/IMG_1678.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Poseability: 8.5/10</span></b> - Would easily be 9+ if she had some sort of torso swivel/pivot/crunch joint. &nbsp;As is, she's still super flexible and can even squat! &nbsp;Hooray for the double-jointed knees, thigh cuts and hinge/swivel ankle combo!<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wAgcnHI49OA/T_C3zFrb1QI/AAAAAAAAIJ0/8oe2NUeHaGA/s1600/IMG_1680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wAgcnHI49OA/T_C3zFrb1QI/AAAAAAAAIJ0/8oe2NUeHaGA/s320/IMG_1680.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sir Mixalot is proud!</td></tr></tbody></table>These new ankles that Hasbro have developed are a real revelation. &nbsp;What they've done is reversed the joint: the hinge goes on the lower leg, while the swivel is in the foot. &nbsp;They've also designed for the post to be inserted into the foot at an angle, so the post goes into the foot like a foot would go into a shoe. So now we have the same turning and pivoting, and the added ability to rotate the ankle, all with the same number of joints!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MwgpGFcEOP0/T_C3naiVi9I/AAAAAAAAIJc/GUrkK1knQKI/s1600/IMG_1676.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MwgpGFcEOP0/T_C3naiVi9I/AAAAAAAAIJc/GUrkK1knQKI/s200/IMG_1676.JPG" width="190" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wES_MSYEXoE/T_C3g5gq5uI/AAAAAAAAIJM/qPvUC4KGi9Y/s1600/IMG_1673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wES_MSYEXoE/T_C3g5gq5uI/AAAAAAAAIJM/qPvUC4KGi9Y/s200/IMG_1673.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Fun: 9/10</span></b> - Like all highly poseable figures, Black Widow plays well on her own and especially with other figures. &nbsp;Beating up on Haweye? &nbsp;Easily done. &nbsp;Taking on the Hulk? &nbsp;<span style="background-color: white;">No problem. &nbsp;</span><span style="background-color: white;">She's highly skilled in hand-to-hand combat, so being able to pull off poses with her PoAs is especially rewarding. Giving her two guns and usable holsters adds to the playability and as a result, the fun factor. &nbsp;Also, the fact that she looks so much like Scarlett Johansen is a real treat. &nbsp;I always find it fun when they get actors' and actress' likenesses spot on. &nbsp;It's just fun to own!</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sduHKw10fHA/T_C36wPLOqI/AAAAAAAAIKE/Ji7eCCaFQJM/s1600/IMG_1718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sduHKw10fHA/T_C36wPLOqI/AAAAAAAAIKE/Ji7eCCaFQJM/s200/IMG_1718.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2wMe9iYxwno/T_C3_D5XYVI/AAAAAAAAIKM/QU-E1T5fAzE/s1600/IMG_1719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2wMe9iYxwno/T_C3_D5XYVI/AAAAAAAAIKM/QU-E1T5fAzE/s200/IMG_1719.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p9TbtDcxvCc/T_C4GcOcvgI/AAAAAAAAIKc/f0glC7eOs1I/s1600/IMG_1721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p9TbtDcxvCc/T_C4GcOcvgI/AAAAAAAAIKc/f0glC7eOs1I/s200/IMG_1721.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGRefud2ZVc/T_C4CVurU-I/AAAAAAAAIKU/sBaeQaRRNqE/s1600/IMG_1720.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGRefud2ZVc/T_C4CVurU-I/AAAAAAAAIKU/sBaeQaRRNqE/s200/IMG_1720.JPG" width="192" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Value: 8.5/10</span></b> - Two guns, a dual holster/belt combo, a "grapple" and an excellent head sculpt and paint-job--so good value there. &nbsp;They didn't skimp on articulation (except for the torso) so that checks out too. &nbsp;But what makes her worth getting is that she's a chase figure and can only be found one out of every twelve in case. &nbsp;So yeah, grab her at retail if you see her!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--qMgudk8JG8/T_C4R256ThI/AAAAAAAAIK0/X4CcTW-iF1E/s1600/IMG_1725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--qMgudk8JG8/T_C4R256ThI/AAAAAAAAIK0/X4CcTW-iF1E/s320/IMG_1725.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Overall: 8.9/10 - It's a keeper for sure!</span></b> - The Avengers Black Widow and Hawkeye from the same wave complete the all-star lineup for the summer blockbuster. &nbsp;That she's been given a&nbsp;great&nbsp;sculpt and paint on top of some brilliant articulation says a lot for the line--they actually bothered to please us collectors! &nbsp;;P &nbsp;Also, any future version of her for this movie will probably use this figure as a base, so that will be a nice way to get her if you can't find her. &nbsp;But here's hoping that they include more of this version in future waves because that would mean more Black Widow for everyone, and it would also mean more (hopefully new) Avengers movie figures!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SnPfDr8uOD8/T_C4N0RGqEI/AAAAAAAAIKs/VpuVXXKvROU/s1600/IMG_1724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SnPfDr8uOD8/T_C4N0RGqEI/AAAAAAAAIKs/VpuVXXKvROU/s200/IMG_1724.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KeJ-vtqSto4/T_C4Jg3X88I/AAAAAAAAIKk/CJOlCDmjdwU/s1600/IMG_1722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KeJ-vtqSto4/T_C4Jg3X88I/AAAAAAAAIKk/CJOlCDmjdwU/s200/IMG_1722.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCY_hsZ9zK0/T_C4VR95nmI/AAAAAAAAIK8/95Ttr_pGfbU/s1600/IMG_1726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCY_hsZ9zK0/T_C4VR95nmI/AAAAAAAAIK8/95Ttr_pGfbU/s200/IMG_1726.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MKCUZzb-t0M/T_C3ZxpLbLI/AAAAAAAAII8/qq6NQZKN53c/s1600/IMG_1670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MKCUZzb-t0M/T_C3ZxpLbLI/AAAAAAAAII8/qq6NQZKN53c/s640/IMG_1670.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BLlY92rD2nU/T_C3KnTMW7I/AAAAAAAAIIc/gOcCjPPUkQg/s1600/Bite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BLlY92rD2nU/T_C3KnTMW7I/AAAAAAAAIIc/gOcCjPPUkQg/s640/Bite.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/07/avengers-375-grapple-firing-black-widow.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-5339923398611608949Sun, 24 Jun 2012 19:35:00 +00002012-12-15T04:22:23.400+08:003.75-inchAction Figure ComicsAvengersCaptain AmericaCustomsThe First AvengerUltimate Captain AmericaUltimatesChase Customs: 3.75" Ultimate Captain America<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_0ToNHkQ9QA/T-dZYQMxLUI/AAAAAAAAID8/nlN3gv39g64/s1600/IMG_1656.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_0ToNHkQ9QA/T-dZYQMxLUI/AAAAAAAAID8/nlN3gv39g64/s320/IMG_1656.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Before you go "What the heck <i>another </i>Captain America reviewed on Chase Variant?!?!?!" I'd like to say this is my first custom ever! &nbsp;It's also more of a "How I did it" rather than an outright review, so all of you who have never done a custom before&nbsp;and are interested in trying it out can see how my first experience went. &nbsp;For those grizzled veteran customizers, you can have a few good laughs at my struggles.<br /><br />I chose Ultimates Captain America for a few reasons:<br /><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m2_cEee5N4A/T-dc7059WRI/AAAAAAAAIEI/asf9Vj2Gk9c/s1600/IMG_1631.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m2_cEee5N4A/T-dc7059WRI/AAAAAAAAIEI/asf9Vj2Gk9c/s320/IMG_1631.JPG" width="240" /></a>1) It wasn't until I read the Ultimates that I liked Captain America. &nbsp;So he's easily my all-time fave Cap. &nbsp;Sorry Chris Evans. &nbsp;Though you come in a close 2nd...</div><div><br /></div><div>2) They haven't made a 3.75" Ultimate Cap that I've truly been satisfied with.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3YQ-3cJa4-E/T-de1vnAR9I/AAAAAAAAIFo/TGiqzYVRK00/s1600/IMG_1629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3YQ-3cJa4-E/T-de1vnAR9I/AAAAAAAAIFo/TGiqzYVRK00/s320/IMG_1629.JPG" width="240" /></a>3) Avengers Movie Figures look great but don't move great. &nbsp;Many of them end up having well-sculpted parts I really like (like <u><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2012/06/avengers-375-super-shield-ultimates.html">Super Shield Captain America</a></u>) so that for me was really the straw that broke the camel's back. &nbsp;And with so many variations of cap after last year's movie, It made me really wanna cannibalize.</div><div><br /></div><div>4)<span style="background-color: white;">&nbsp;I'm starting to find loose Captain America 3.75" movie figures and Marvel Universe figures loose and for cheap because it's been a year now, and things are starting to go on clearance!</span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">So this is about how I went about kit-bashing, with the emphasis on the bashing part!</span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;"></span><br /><a name='more'></a></div><div></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lv6_Fw_0pr0/T-dexj05eEI/AAAAAAAAIFg/Kc2uuNf-EZ8/s1600/IMG_1628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lv6_Fw_0pr0/T-dexj05eEI/AAAAAAAAIFg/Kc2uuNf-EZ8/s320/IMG_1628.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Longer legs = tallest!</td></tr></tbody></table>After the review of Super Shield Captain America, I was really disgruntled at how such good sculpt was given the short end of the stick articulation-wise. &nbsp;I had picked up SS Cap because I thought the colour scheme on him was great (love that deeper blue) and the vest and belt he had on were excellently sculpted and painted. &nbsp;So yes, I bought a toy for its clothes. :P<br /><br />Comparing him to my <u><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2011/06/captain-america-first-avenger-375.html">Ultimates Cap outta the Captain America movie line</a></u>, I realized he was taller. &nbsp;He also had wrists but no elbow swivels (they were hinges), while the former had elbow swivel/hinges but no wrists.. &nbsp;But he had no chest pivot, no double-hinged knees (only single), and no ankles. &nbsp;Frustrated that both figures had some things the other didn't I wished there was some way I could remedy the problem.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eWPuuBrJ6YY/T-detm_-TAI/AAAAAAAAIFY/yh_7DfiJCLc/s1600/IMG_1626.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eWPuuBrJ6YY/T-detm_-TAI/AAAAAAAAIFY/yh_7DfiJCLc/s200/IMG_1626.JPG" width="166" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With bandoleer still on</td></tr></tbody></table>Then when I was at the local toy flea market last week, one of the regular sellers had S$5 loose Marvel/Marvel Universe figures without accessories. &nbsp;Lo and behold, I spotted an Ultimate Cap and swooped! &nbsp;(I just went back today and snagged Bucky Cap, Captain Britain and Commander Rogers for more custom fodder. &nbsp;Yay! ;P)<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H9fbzxNzh4I/T-dfGP21wnI/AAAAAAAAIGQ/D6fUaTeGx_k/s1600/IMG_1640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H9fbzxNzh4I/T-dfGP21wnI/AAAAAAAAIGQ/D6fUaTeGx_k/s320/IMG_1640.JPG" width="285" /></a>I'd been meaning to try my hand at customizing for some time now but just didn't feel I had enough knowledge or the parts I needed. &nbsp;So when the chance presented itself in the form of a cheap loose figure I already had, I jumped at it. &nbsp;Time to merge Ultimate Cap with SS Cap and make the perfect Cap for myself.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8IBLzPJUuac/T-deqFclVpI/AAAAAAAAIFQ/LKuO0Dbxfxs/s1600/IMG_1624.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8IBLzPJUuac/T-deqFclVpI/AAAAAAAAIFQ/LKuO0Dbxfxs/s200/IMG_1624.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My new favourite household appliance</td></tr></tbody></table>This was <b><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>The Plan</u></span></b>: I'd keep the Ultimate Cap torso and head (for the chest pivot), somehow pull off the SS upper arms (they were longer) at&nbsp;the&nbsp;shoulder but slice off the inflexible elbow rings, and plant the UltiCap forearms in place of them. &nbsp;I'd switch out the Ultimate thighs for the SS Thighs via hairdryer, and viola! &nbsp;I'd have the perfect Ultimates Cap. &nbsp;I would only have to repaint the blue on him and probably wash some areas for deeper shading. &nbsp;But all-in-all the base body part switch would come pretty close. &nbsp;Then I'd throw on the snazzy vest and utility belt and he'd be complete. &nbsp;Simple, right? &nbsp;Or so I thought!<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-onjN8ckL_CI/T-ddA1Qda4I/AAAAAAAAIEQ/CO5DgIhTft4/s1600/IMG_1615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-onjN8ckL_CI/T-ddA1Qda4I/AAAAAAAAIEQ/CO5DgIhTft4/s320/IMG_1615.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr style="color: red;"><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Complication #1</b></td></tr></tbody></table>The first problem was that Ultimate Cap was too short. &nbsp;This was down to the length of the thighs. &nbsp;So digging around for my wife's trusty hairdryer, which she never uses and has now become my best friend, I heated the thighs on both figs and off they popped no problem! &nbsp;Then I ran into<b><span style="color: red;"> Complication #1:</span></b><br /><br />The thigh pegs on SS Cap were longer than those on UltiCap. &nbsp;I tried putting 'em on anyway but it looked like this (below).<br /><br />I didn't have a Dremel at the time so I could drill deeper into the SS thigh sockets. (But I just bought one yesterday. &nbsp;Hahah! ;P)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PMMb_wyTZxs/T-ddNVJtMFI/AAAAAAAAIE4/5KtMSsxes4g/s1600/IMG_1621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PMMb_wyTZxs/T-ddNVJtMFI/AAAAAAAAIE4/5KtMSsxes4g/s320/IMG_1621.JPG" width="320" /></a>There was also no way I could slice off and re-attach the heads on the pegs confidently. &nbsp;The swivel rings that controlled the whole leg were also steadfastly drilled into his lower torso so I didn't feel pulling that out by force was an option either.<br /><br />Bummed that I didn't have the tool or the&nbsp;know-how&nbsp;to get around the problem, I thought my first attempt at a custom was at an end.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j3xFW56gO6k/T-deiKlt1eI/AAAAAAAAIFA/Eqn-OUBRyBY/s1600/IMG_1622.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="144" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j3xFW56gO6k/T-deiKlt1eI/AAAAAAAAIFA/Eqn-OUBRyBY/s320/IMG_1622.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: red;">Complication #2</span></b></td></tr></tbody></table>Then it hit me: &nbsp;I'd heat the joint and then slice on the inside of the hinge through the soft plastic that goes through the swivel ring, thereby removing the entire upper leg instead of just the thighs. &nbsp;Then I'd attach those directly into the rings of the Ultimates torso. &nbsp;There would be no way to glue or reseal the plastic after it went into the Ulti torso rings, but after it cooled I gambled that it would be reasonably firm. &nbsp;So barring any violent attempt to dismember Perfect Cap, the legs would work exactly as before. &nbsp;I thought I was a genius!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S9PNtdMDxPk/T-de_WboGCI/AAAAAAAAIGA/Sq2fuRidTOg/s1600/IMG_1636.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S9PNtdMDxPk/T-de_WboGCI/AAAAAAAAIGA/Sq2fuRidTOg/s200/IMG_1636.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>So I gleefully sliced though 4 leg hinges and that was when I ran into <b><span style="color: red;">Complication #2:</span></b><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dMBR5YaFW8c/T-dfCitHLxI/AAAAAAAAIGI/1rF7NZFaWuk/s1600/IMG_1638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dMBR5YaFW8c/T-dfCitHLxI/AAAAAAAAIGI/1rF7NZFaWuk/s320/IMG_1638.JPG" width="297" /></a>The ring holes on SS Cap were larger than those on UltiCap. &nbsp;That meant that the soft plastic "bars" would be too big to fit through the Ulti torso rings. &nbsp;There was also no way the trusty hairdryer could come to the rescue--those rings are made of hard plastic and won't soften under heat. &nbsp;Argh! &nbsp;But I was enjoying the challenge, so I thought: &nbsp;I couldn't&nbsp;whittle&nbsp;away at the sot rubber "bar" because that would greatly weaken the hinge, which might eventually break. &nbsp;I couldn't pull out the hard plastic rings. &nbsp;So I grabbed my Exacto knife and started widening the holes on the Ultimate torso rings. &nbsp;I initially tried filing them wider with some hobby files but it was going too slow and I kept filing the edges of Cap's ass. &nbsp;I didn't want him to have a rough, worked-over behind, so I turned to the Exacto.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zYt3phdZW5M/T-delf6JQ2I/AAAAAAAAIFI/GxNeGeLsNTY/s1600/IMG_1623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zYt3phdZW5M/T-delf6JQ2I/AAAAAAAAIFI/GxNeGeLsNTY/s320/IMG_1623.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So pretty!</td></tr></tbody></table>This was by far the most tedious part of the kit-bash and also one that would have been much easier with the Dremel tool. &nbsp;I woulda filed that sucker down in seconds. &nbsp;But I was too excited to stop and slashed away eagerly, paying the price when I sliced open my left ring finger and thumb. &nbsp;There was blood, but I felt manly.<br /><br />After much finagling, I had me my widened holes! ;)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aBwVANHkoEc/T-ddIIyzdhI/AAAAAAAAIEo/A-k9jreE04o/s1600/IMG_1618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aBwVANHkoEc/T-ddIIyzdhI/AAAAAAAAIEo/A-k9jreE04o/s200/IMG_1618.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Reattaching the SS thighs to SS upper thighs, I fit in the upper SS legs perfectly. &nbsp;Then I went for the Ulti knees and lower legs. &nbsp;Looking at how the SS Cap single hinge knee was attached, I figured I could heat and remove them and place the Ultimates knees, with its second hinge, in their place. &nbsp;Along with the swivel/hinge ankles, Perfect Cap would have all the best 3.75" articulation. &nbsp;I thought, hey, it's a simple heat and pop out, then heat and pop in again. &nbsp;But it turns out the Hasbro double-jointed knee is made up of not just one single plastic knee piece, but three--a soft plastic "knee" and two hard plastic bars. (Pic of disassemble knee) &nbsp;So that's how the knee stays so secure!<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zR1XtJ_yhxw/T-ddKJi1P4I/AAAAAAAAIEw/5UxIrfHcv9I/s1600/IMG_1619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="89" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zR1XtJ_yhxw/T-ddKJi1P4I/AAAAAAAAIEw/5UxIrfHcv9I/s320/IMG_1619.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: red;">Complication #3</span></b></td></tr></tbody></table>Since the bars are hard plastic, they don't get soft when heated. &nbsp;When the thigh around it is soft, it's also really easily to push the bar into the knee sockets. &nbsp;They snap nicely.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xwlc6hfqYBY/T-de72-bIoI/AAAAAAAAIF4/G4Am1BjJig0/s1600/IMG_1632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xwlc6hfqYBY/T-de72-bIoI/AAAAAAAAIF4/G4Am1BjJig0/s200/IMG_1632.JPG" width="190" /></a>Now I had my torso and legs, but not arms. &nbsp;And as you saw, my original plan was to use the Super Shield upper arms and slice the rings off them, and then somehow drill the forearms of UltiCap to take their place. &nbsp;But there were a few problems (<b><span style="color: red;">Complication #3</span></b>):<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b6QGcKItR6w/T-de4gwmE6I/AAAAAAAAIFw/T-xdOPD8LiA/s1600/IMG_1630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b6QGcKItR6w/T-de4gwmE6I/AAAAAAAAIFw/T-xdOPD8LiA/s320/IMG_1630.JPG" width="320" /></a>I didn't know how to remove the arms at the shoulders without damaging the figure. &nbsp;Even if I did, I didn't know how I was going keep the SS upper arms, slice off the inflexible elbow rings and drill in the SS forearms and keep the elbow swivel. &nbsp;The problem was mainly how to keep the SS arm but put in a swivel at the elbow. &nbsp;The single hinge joint there looked so obviously different from the swivel/hinge of the Ultimates Cap.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4mYj64Txeos/T-dfJyyGTCI/AAAAAAAAIGY/U0gnNnmpIGg/s1600/IMG_1641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4mYj64Txeos/T-dfJyyGTCI/AAAAAAAAIGY/U0gnNnmpIGg/s200/IMG_1641.JPG" width="150" /></a>But then I lucked out--I noticed that the upper arms were the same length after all, or close enough that it wouldn't matter. &nbsp;Then after heating and removing the forearms off both SS and Ultimates Cap, I realized the matter of the elbow swivel was simpler than I'd thought--the difference just down to one thing: the swivel ring that gave Ulticap the elbow swivel!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sv_sGiS1ZmE/T-dfNbEcPAI/AAAAAAAAIGg/rmBxbpN9lGU/s1600/IMG_1642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sv_sGiS1ZmE/T-dfNbEcPAI/AAAAAAAAIGg/rmBxbpN9lGU/s320/IMG_1642.JPG" width="320" /></a>Where SS Cap's elbow had an inflexible but soft rubber ring, Ulticap's was hard plastic screwed/drilled into the upper arm! &nbsp;Wrist swivel aside, the forearms were otherwise the same. &nbsp;So it was a simple matter of a forearm switch--SS Cap's onto UltiCap's upper arms. Yay! :)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e655mnVSNCk/T-ddFoTfGtI/AAAAAAAAIEg/NVaTszRs4v0/s1600/IMG_1617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e655mnVSNCk/T-ddFoTfGtI/AAAAAAAAIEg/NVaTszRs4v0/s200/IMG_1617.JPG" width="186" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VrQHtKyiQIo/T-ddDY7129I/AAAAAAAAIEY/q5gQ3lLegso/s1600/IMG_1616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VrQHtKyiQIo/T-ddDY7129I/AAAAAAAAIEY/q5gQ3lLegso/s200/IMG_1616.JPG" width="170" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Complication #4</span></b> is actually the first problem I encountered, but it was a small one concerning the vest and belt so I put it down the list. &nbsp;I'd thought the SS belt and vest didn't have tabs and holes but it turns out they do: the belt's is under the water bottle on the rear right, while the vest's is at the&nbsp;bandoleer&nbsp;where it connects with the left side of the vest. &nbsp;It's just that both are glued tight. &nbsp;(Thanks, 3B, for the tip! :])<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t7VirZ_1AU4/T-dfRZ6QsDI/AAAAAAAAIGo/KY2OwCgsYlA/s1600/IMG_1645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t7VirZ_1AU4/T-dfRZ6QsDI/AAAAAAAAIGo/KY2OwCgsYlA/s320/IMG_1645.JPG" width="320" /></a>With the trusty hairdryer and a little heat, I managed to remove the belt okay but not the vest, which tore. &nbsp;So what I did (after consulting the dear wife) was to slice off the bandoleer completely. &nbsp;It looks better that way, I agree, doesn't require glue, and won't hinder the chest pivot. &nbsp;The belt tabs on nicely but will have to be glued to be held in place.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CAYgUR1pAEM/T-dfcjBNo-I/AAAAAAAAIHA/gc0f-Z0ZZEA/s1600/IMG_1666.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CAYgUR1pAEM/T-dfcjBNo-I/AAAAAAAAIHA/gc0f-Z0ZZEA/s200/IMG_1666.JPG" width="150" /></a>After all this, I felt really proud that I'd managed to put New Ultimate Captain America together. &nbsp;But something didn't sit quite right. &nbsp;It was the head! &nbsp;I never really liked the head sculpt they gave him. &nbsp;He looked a little mean and also not quite so handsome. &nbsp;Cap's always a good-looking chap and I'd always thought the comic Ultimates comic Cap looked cooler without his mask on. &nbsp;In fact, some of the time he doesn't even bother wearing it. &nbsp;I thought that I would try on&nbsp;<span style="background-color: white;">Marvel Universe</span><span style="background-color: white;">&nbsp;</span><u style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2011/11/marvel-universe-375-commander-steve.html">Commander Rogers</a></u><span style="background-color: white;">' for an unmasked version but his head socket was too small and again, no tools then.</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MxwGTC_ND-Y/T-dfvIlek-I/AAAAAAAAIHw/EpfgovGfuCk/s1600/IMG_1711.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MxwGTC_ND-Y/T-dfvIlek-I/AAAAAAAAIHw/EpfgovGfuCk/s200/IMG_1711.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zgD56YMFU5c/T-dftNNxV_I/AAAAAAAAIHo/h6uc30xmVNI/s1600/IMG_1710.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zgD56YMFU5c/T-dftNNxV_I/AAAAAAAAIHo/h6uc30xmVNI/s200/IMG_1710.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oQGLTnEOtbk/T-dfxVXnzPI/AAAAAAAAIH4/Zq0tWVl0wo4/s1600/IMG_1712.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oQGLTnEOtbk/T-dfxVXnzPI/AAAAAAAAIH4/Zq0tWVl0wo4/s200/IMG_1712.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YBZd2ojqx94/T-dffoBl3dI/AAAAAAAAIHI/xiiVeUuerPQ/s1600/IMG_1702.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="176" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YBZd2ojqx94/T-dffoBl3dI/AAAAAAAAIHI/xiiVeUuerPQ/s200/IMG_1702.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OHUA-aFWD-I/T-dfVczT7RI/AAAAAAAAIGw/CPmOUaamEIk/s1600/IMG_1660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OHUA-aFWD-I/T-dfVczT7RI/AAAAAAAAIGw/CPmOUaamEIk/s320/IMG_1660.JPG" width="240" /></a>Then I stumbled upon GI Joe Pursuit of Cobra Desert Battle Conrad Duke Hauser in my Joe box. &nbsp;It was the perfect head! &nbsp;Right hair colour, ruggedly good-looking, stern&nbsp;<span style="background-color: white;">but not mean. &nbsp;</span><span style="background-color: white;">The socket? &nbsp;A perfect fit, nice and tight and able to move like a ball-joint should! :)</span><br /><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">I was trying to&nbsp;remember&nbsp;the reason I bought the figure in the first place--it had a huge BFG as an accessory and little else. &nbsp;Then I slowly recalled that when I saw pics of him, I had thought: "That's Captain America!" &nbsp;I guess I was just saving it for this moment. &nbsp;Lol.</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gm5VHImM3OY/T-dfq6xeixI/AAAAAAAAIHg/LQXVliyRBvA/s1600/IMG_1709.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="337" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gm5VHImM3OY/T-dfq6xeixI/AAAAAAAAIHg/LQXVliyRBvA/s640/IMG_1709.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3FxpbWM673g/T-dfj04GghI/AAAAAAAAIHQ/WMvjetuhM9g/s1600/IMG_1704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3FxpbWM673g/T-dfj04GghI/AAAAAAAAIHQ/WMvjetuhM9g/s320/IMG_1704.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Verdict:</span>&nbsp;</b>So here he is, in all his glory. &nbsp;My shot at the perfect Ultimate Captain America. &nbsp;He's as tall as Commander Rogers with a more realistic look.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-czmieambeNE/T-dfoC4TpdI/AAAAAAAAIHY/mW69xcLvlXk/s1600/IMG_1708.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-czmieambeNE/T-dfoC4TpdI/AAAAAAAAIHY/mW69xcLvlXk/s200/IMG_1708.JPG" width="200" /></a>He's super flexible, though the one problem I have is not that his leg hinges are loose (those worked out fine), it's that his knees are <i>soft</i>. &nbsp;For some reason he can't seem to have too much weight on them, for example like in a wide stance. &nbsp;It's not that his knees are loose--they're tight--it's feels like the soft rubber knee piece either has been softened by heating or that the thigh piece isn't clipping the knee joint piece tightly enough. &nbsp;Either way, he's got two kinda bum knees. &nbsp;Lol.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M5020SHaggA/T-df18fq1UI/AAAAAAAAIIE/Hsh04TbDHeM/s1600/Assemble%2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M5020SHaggA/T-df18fq1UI/AAAAAAAAIIE/Hsh04TbDHeM/s320/Assemble%2521.jpg" width="216" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nzNmKwyca-E/T-df4dCmiyI/AAAAAAAAIIQ/eT1vsX90krY/s1600/Ultimate+Custom+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nzNmKwyca-E/T-df4dCmiyI/AAAAAAAAIIQ/eT1vsX90krY/s320/Ultimate+Custom+Art.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GpnVSd3fo3U/T-df0izkOMI/AAAAAAAAIIA/s_u-EcI1XM0/s1600/Pants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GpnVSd3fo3U/T-df0izkOMI/AAAAAAAAIIA/s_u-EcI1XM0/s640/Pants.jpg" width="640" /></a>Also, I still need to touch him up paint-wise for the little details. &nbsp;But I thought I'd share him with you first. &nbsp;Hope you enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed talking about it! :)</div>http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/06/chase-customs-ultimate-captain-america.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-3886219038278778631Wed, 20 Jun 2012 23:06:00 +00002012-06-21T07:09:08.694+08:003.75-inchBlack WidowHawkeyeJubileeMan-At-ArmsMarvel UniverseMasters of the UniverseMOTU ClassicsToy HaulDouble Score!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lRBwpKlOziM/T-JVVB-ntqI/AAAAAAAAIDQ/yqbxf9B7hD0/s1600/IMG_1649.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lRBwpKlOziM/T-JVVB-ntqI/AAAAAAAAIDQ/yqbxf9B7hD0/s320/IMG_1649.JPG" width="240" /></a>It's been quite a while since I posted a toy haul here on Chase Variant an that's because it's been a while since I've come home from a hunt with good success.<br /><br />Today was one of those few and fare between days.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-63FXeQJoPwM/T-JWVBj_HrI/AAAAAAAAIDw/viYtuqM89ZQ/s1600/IMG_1650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-63FXeQJoPwM/T-JWVBj_HrI/AAAAAAAAIDw/viYtuqM89ZQ/s200/IMG_1650.JPG" width="150" /></a>Off from work for a day just to enjoy time with the wife and kid, we walk into one of the department stores that I like to look for game (OG Orchard). &nbsp;Now the great Singapore Sale is currently ongoing, so there's a storewide 20% off discount. &nbsp;I step into the &nbsp;Marvel aisle and am greeted by a rare sight in this neck of the woods: Gamma Smash Hulk. &nbsp;Not&nbsp;one, but three of them...<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><span style="background-color: white;">Knowing that The Avengers Series 3 case of 12 3.75" figures comes in an assortment of 3x Hulk, 2x Reactron Armor Iron Man, 1x Fusion Armor Iron Man, 1x Cosmic Spear Loki, 2x Skrull Soldier, 2x Movie Hawkeye, and 1x Grapple Firing (Movie) Black Widow, my Spider Sense starts tingling! &nbsp;My son points to a Captain America chest light. &nbsp;I grab it for him...And spot Hawkeye!</span><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rLtrI1qphOE/T-JVfuqe1PI/AAAAAAAAIDg/NhwUc2Lwm98/s1600/IMG_1652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rLtrI1qphOE/T-JVfuqe1PI/AAAAAAAAIDg/NhwUc2Lwm98/s320/IMG_1652.JPG" width="240" /></a>Snatching him off the shelf (Hawkeye, not my son), tell my wife that I'm also looking for ScarJo and immediately spot a Skrull Soldier.<br /><br />*Grab*<br /><br />The wife digs beneath the pegs and pulls out a figure that was placed face down under the figures on the pegs. &nbsp;It's Natasha Romanov. &nbsp;Wheeeee!!!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-32aA24wMG2I/T-JWPnocefI/AAAAAAAAIDo/kw3-DJQBrQc/s1600/IMG_1653.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-32aA24wMG2I/T-JWPnocefI/AAAAAAAAIDo/kw3-DJQBrQc/s320/IMG_1653.JPG" width="240" /></a>"Someone was obviously hiding this..." she said as she drew another Hawkeye from the same place. &nbsp;We looked for another Widow for the Rangerlord (because I texted him and he wanted one, of course) but could only find two more Skrull Soldier. &nbsp;I was about to give up when the sale assistant brings back about 5 or 6 figures and re-hangs them on the pegs--someone had decided at check-out that they didn't want some figures--and I see another Skrull Soldier! &nbsp;So there had to have been more than one new case of Series 3 opened. &nbsp;Cursing my luck (the Rangerlord's luck, really) I pay for my mini-haul.<br /><br />But later at night, the wife and I are on a much needed might out alone without the boy. &nbsp;We go to one of the neighbourhood malls (Nex) to catch <i>Snow White and the Huntsman </i>(meh) but decide to swoop on another local department store (Isetan) to try our luck. &nbsp;Now we usually don't find anything there. &nbsp;But guess who we found in the Marvel Universe section:<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fasGXLVvKGM/T-JVPmZmxAI/AAAAAAAAIDI/Ooq6pIWBAe8/s1600/IMG_1646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fasGXLVvKGM/T-JVPmZmxAI/AAAAAAAAIDI/Ooq6pIWBAe8/s320/IMG_1646.JPG" width="240" /></a>That's right, Wave 21 Jubilee! &nbsp;Jubilation!<br /><br />No Blastaar or Chuck Xavier in sight, though. &nbsp;The ones I'd seen on Ebay went for US$63 and US$132 respectively. &nbsp;Jujube wasn't too bad herself, fetching some 52 big ones. &nbsp;I guess that's what happens when you see a figure that's five waves away from being released. &nbsp;*Shrug* ;)<br /><br />And I just didn't find one of her, oh no. &nbsp; I found two! &nbsp;Double happiness! <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c4XJrZtWweg/T-JVaYr-wHI/AAAAAAAAIDY/WvbY1vkuF74/s1600/IMG_1647.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c4XJrZtWweg/T-JVaYr-wHI/AAAAAAAAIDY/WvbY1vkuF74/s320/IMG_1647.JPG" width="240" /></a>Before I had time to recover from shock, Melissa says, "There's Black Widow!" &nbsp;I look over at the Avengers pegs, and there she is, front and centre. &nbsp;There's more grabbing. &nbsp;I find two more Hawkeye, two more Skrull Soldier, and some Hulks.<br /><br />At the end of the day, I left all the Skrull Soldiers I found on the pegs. &nbsp;Their lack of wrist and ankle articulation worked against them for me. &nbsp;But they do have excellent head sculpts, though. &nbsp;My haul? &nbsp;Two each of ScarJo Black Widow, Jeremy Renner Hawkeye, and Jubilee!<br /><br />Good times. :Dhttp://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/06/double-score.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-6512956842913515871Fri, 15 Jun 2012 22:45:00 +00002012-06-16T07:04:41.540+08:003.75-inchAction Figure ComicsHammer Smash ThorMarvel UniverseThe Mighty AvengerThorThor The Mighty Avenger 3.75" Hammer Smash Thor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8hSNAbtOO-M/T9uwMZ_CnfI/AAAAAAAAIAY/_uTSsNrFXGQ/s1600/IMG_1557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8hSNAbtOO-M/T9uwMZ_CnfI/AAAAAAAAIAY/_uTSsNrFXGQ/s320/IMG_1557.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>It's been more than a year since the Thor movie hit theatres and a good 15 months since the toys hit the shelves. &nbsp;So that can only mean one thing--it's clearance time for the line! ;)<br /><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X4kMVFi5wu4/T9uwR2dBIHI/AAAAAAAAIAg/EUvOhXZiJOI/s1600/IMG_1558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X4kMVFi5wu4/T9uwR2dBIHI/AAAAAAAAIAg/EUvOhXZiJOI/s200/IMG_1558.JPG" width="150" /></a>So I'm minding my own business in the toy section (sheah, right) at the local Takashimaya department store, when I chance upon a whole load of Thor The Mighty&nbsp;Avenger movie 3.75" figures going for clearance at 1/2 price. &nbsp;Sure, it wasn't the excellent S$5 deal from another&nbsp;department&nbsp;store, OG. &nbsp;But lo and behold, they had this Thor figure with the helmeted head going for S$9.90. &nbsp;They also had a bunch of deluxe Blaster Armor Thor (unwanted) and Ice Attack Frost Giants at S$12 a pop.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Army builders!</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--jWpCaC0g_Y/T9uxBaIEPII/AAAAAAAAICQ/81tzAldxC1c/s1600/IMG_1589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--jWpCaC0g_Y/T9uxBaIEPII/AAAAAAAAICQ/81tzAldxC1c/s320/IMG_1589.JPG" width="240" /></a>A couple of Frost Giants and a Thor later, and I'm a happier man. (Does the dance of joy.) &nbsp;I've been waiting to get the helmeted Thor for a long time now. &nbsp;Ditto for the Frost Giant army. &nbsp;And just when I wasn't really looking at all, I find them! &nbsp;Both and the same time too, to boot.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LZvcoI64kQE/T9uwU5gdalI/AAAAAAAAIAo/q-MjYJ-JWgk/s1600/IMG_1559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LZvcoI64kQE/T9uwU5gdalI/AAAAAAAAIAo/q-MjYJ-JWgk/s200/IMG_1559.JPG" width="197" /></a>Am I happy with them? &nbsp;Hells yeah. &nbsp;Especially since this helmeted Thor has the proportion of helmet-to-head ratio the way I like it. &nbsp;You only have to look as far as the Thor 6" Thor figure to find a ridiculously small helmet, while the helmetless version has just been released in the Avengers movie line as a Walmart Exclusive!</div><div><br /></div><div>So I'm thankful I found Hammer Smash Thor in the wild on the cheap, while not having to agonize over if/when I'd be able to have helmeted/helmetless Thor heads in 3.75" scale!</div><div><br /></div><div><a name='more'></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IjBGsGBQQng/T9uwtskRq0I/AAAAAAAAIBo/tsqmAc62k-w/s1600/IMG_1575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IjBGsGBQQng/T9uwtskRq0I/AAAAAAAAIBo/tsqmAc62k-w/s320/IMG_1575.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-khv81s6RX-Y/T9uwg75x4GI/AAAAAAAAIBQ/mfajnBJg0IQ/s1600/IMG_1571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-khv81s6RX-Y/T9uwg75x4GI/AAAAAAAAIBQ/mfajnBJg0IQ/s200/IMG_1571.JPG" width="131" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> &nbsp;The helmet! &nbsp;It's the right size for me and it's painted a bright shiny silver that matches with the feel of movie Asgardian metal. &nbsp;Like any of us know what the hell that means. &nbsp;Lol. &nbsp;Ok, I guess we kinda <i>all </i>do.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> The paint on the edge of the helmet is sloppy and spills over onto his face. &nbsp;It's not a matter of if you can find one that doesn't spill, but rather if you can find one that spills neatly. &nbsp;I picked out a neat one, but I've seen some with horrendous spillage.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That (besides the head) there are minor changes in the deco from <u><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2011/04/thor-375-inch-movie-line-sword-spike.html"><b>Sword Spike Thor</b></a></u>. &nbsp;It's hard to notice without the figures side by side, but this version has washed armour on the arms and silver circles instead of pale gold on the torso.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Va6gd3I1L5k/T9uwe3JhQ4I/AAAAAAAAIBI/F00BFowVUOI/s1600/IMG_1570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Va6gd3I1L5k/T9uwe3JhQ4I/AAAAAAAAIBI/F00BFowVUOI/s200/IMG_1570.JPG" width="134" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wun-aS_fRHo/T9uwarZPFTI/AAAAAAAAIA4/sC5WqVQRon4/s1600/IMG_1568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wun-aS_fRHo/T9uwarZPFTI/AAAAAAAAIA4/sC5WqVQRon4/s200/IMG_1568.JPG" width="135" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7_MPX6K1J3Y/T9uwczFduoI/AAAAAAAAIBA/n6-zSJ2KIfw/s1600/IMG_1569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7_MPX6K1J3Y/T9uwczFduoI/AAAAAAAAIBA/n6-zSJ2KIfw/s200/IMG_1569.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I like that these are subtle changes because if you're not inclined towards getting both a helmeted and &nbsp;helmetless Thor, then you can get one or the other and not really worry if you're missing out. &nbsp;Look what I did? &nbsp;I got them both so I'm <i>really</i> not not missing out. &nbsp;Really!</div><div><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FNynTWZ60Is/T9uxJjga9qI/AAAAAAAAICg/eHo1fqi_bII/s1600/IMG_1611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FNynTWZ60Is/T9uxJjga9qI/AAAAAAAAICg/eHo1fqi_bII/s320/IMG_1611.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Helmet Head and Ginger Spice</td></tr></tbody></table><div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That the cape is glued on instead of removable like it is for Sword Spike (helmetless) Thor. &nbsp;This is weird, I know, because it usually means one less accessory or less ways to pose/play with the guy. &nbsp;But the problem with the removable cape is that it falls off rather easily. &nbsp;So if you use it to prop the other Thor up, the cape usually falls off while Thor goes crashing down. &nbsp;In this instance,&nbsp;he stands up real well! &nbsp;Besides, he'd also look pretty silly with this grand helm and no cape. Lol.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RI-fKA5TIu8/T9uwlsAoLFI/AAAAAAAAIBY/Ro53d8GhXpI/s1600/IMG_1574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RI-fKA5TIu8/T9uwlsAoLFI/AAAAAAAAIBY/Ro53d8GhXpI/s320/IMG_1574.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b>&nbsp;His hip armour/panels get in the way of his legs' forward movement. &nbsp;It's a pity, because&nbsp;the&nbsp;swivel/hinge ball joints they use for the movie figures have all the flexibility and none of the looseness that the Marvel Universe ball-sockets joints suffer from. &nbsp;But I think what I <i>may</i> do here, in my new found calling as a quixotic customizer, is cut out those panels and glue them to the upper thighs. &nbsp;Yeah, that job might just solve the problem while leaving his hips protected from his enemies.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VZPbpui6_wQ/T9uwYzt-FOI/AAAAAAAAIAw/wmmQS-vQKxw/s1600/IMG_1567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VZPbpui6_wQ/T9uwYzt-FOI/AAAAAAAAIAw/wmmQS-vQKxw/s320/IMG_1567.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> I think I prefer the paint decos on this guy then compared to Sword Spike Thor. &nbsp;The ink-washed mail sleeves are better, for one. &nbsp;And I do so prefer the way the face been&nbsp;painted&nbsp;beneath the helm. &nbsp;The slightly worried/determined/perplexed look is not lost beneath all the colour.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VvwEWjL6TqU/T9uw9WD4YAI/AAAAAAAAICI/9A-AOeh7Mfc/s1600/IMG_1585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VvwEWjL6TqU/T9uw9WD4YAI/AAAAAAAAICI/9A-AOeh7Mfc/s320/IMG_1585.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> His face sculpt! &nbsp;This is something I should have mentioned earlier because it was one of the reasons I got the guy--the helmet and the face sculpt. &nbsp;It's the closest to&nbsp;Chris&nbsp;Hemsworth I've seen in this scale. &nbsp;I have to say it's surprising that it comes with helmeted figure. &nbsp;I guess I usually expect&nbsp;sculptors&nbsp;to do a&nbsp;better&nbsp;job with less clutter on the noggin'. &nbsp;But hey, whadda I know? ;)</div><div><br /></div><h3> <u>RATINGS</u></h3><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AJzCRojS4_A/T9uw01vqMzI/AAAAAAAAIB4/aUaX_ND1Dkw/s1600/IMG_1578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AJzCRojS4_A/T9uw01vqMzI/AAAAAAAAIB4/aUaX_ND1Dkw/s320/IMG_1578.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Aesthetics: 9/10</span></b> - Bonus points for the head! &nbsp;Not just for the perfect-sized helmet, but also for the great face sculpt. &nbsp;I probably have only ever seen a better one for the actor on a Hot Toys figure. &nbsp;So at like 5% of the price this is a masterpiece on and of itself.</div><div><br /></div><div>There's also the small matter of that unpainted neck hinge this line somehow has a problem with. &nbsp;But I say better a neck hinge than none at all!</div><div><br /></div><div>I've not mentioned the fantastically sculpted&nbsp;armour&nbsp;with all the intricate details, but there's hardly anywhere on him that isn't covered in some wrinkle or has some sculpted pattern.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cmLLG5M6nF0/T9uwpegqXuI/AAAAAAAAIBg/tAlOT1TIJnY/s1600/IMG_1572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cmLLG5M6nF0/T9uwpegqXuI/AAAAAAAAIBg/tAlOT1TIJnY/s320/IMG_1572.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Poseability: 7.5/10</span></b> - He would definitely benefit from not having his legs blocked by his armour. &nbsp;Even then, that swivel hinge head and something like 27 PoAs on my count already make this Thor an amazing poser. &nbsp;Verily.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Fun: 8/10</span></b> - I just love my superheroes and mythical characters. &nbsp;That's probably why I'm liking Thor more and more. &nbsp;Oh, and there's that movie that I keep watching again and again that has him team up with some mere mortals for a jaunt on Midgaard. &nbsp;And there's also that older one where he actually tastes mortal-hood for a bit and learns that pet shops don't sell horses.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xMQEL1i5wQY/T9uwwX0euSI/AAAAAAAAIBw/8sPArRfub-c/s1600/HS+Thor+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xMQEL1i5wQY/T9uwwX0euSI/AAAAAAAAIBw/8sPArRfub-c/s320/HS+Thor+Art.jpg" width="320" /></a>I think the fun factor for redecoed figures like this Thor is that you can buy them on clearance and then take the best of its parts and swap 'em in on another figure that has other parts you like. &nbsp;It's a bit of a mix and match but ultimately, you get the "perfect" movie Thor. &nbsp;It's a page I'm taking out of the Rangerlord's book. &nbsp;We both have too many action figures and, like everyone out there, are trying to get the "best" version of the characters we like. &nbsp;So what better way than to do-it-yourself and have some spare parts to kitbash or better yet trade/sell off? &nbsp;Better yet, you can offer them as giveaways on your site! &nbsp;Giveways? &nbsp;well, watch this space! ;)</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-557Zae9YaD8/T9uw5KHWIOI/AAAAAAAAICA/v0h4J6FSUdw/s1600/IMG_1581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-557Zae9YaD8/T9uw5KHWIOI/AAAAAAAAICA/v0h4J6FSUdw/s400/IMG_1581.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Value: 7.5/10</span></b> - A new head is the only change to a previously released figure. &nbsp;But it's a good one. &nbsp;Hammer Smash Thor comes with the standard Mjolnir and the overly fat and nonsensical "sword" that I suppose smashes hammers. &nbsp;His cape might not come off because its glued on, but if you want to make it removable you could probably try some hot water or take a hair dryer to it.<br /><br />For the amount I paid for this guy on clearance (more than 50%off), he's a steal! &nbsp;Of course, I denied myself the pleasure of enjoying the figure and the world of&nbsp;a review for a year just to save some bucks. ;P</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Overall: 8/10 - It's a Keeper! </span></b>- With the way The Avengers 3.75" scale figures turned out, the quality of the older movie figures are really showing through. &nbsp;It's most obvious with the Thor figures because they pack a highly detailed sculpt with great articulation and the right accessories.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MtunEsXhN_U/T9uxFgu14UI/AAAAAAAAICY/kR0r4D1u5MA/s1600/IMG_1590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MtunEsXhN_U/T9uxFgu14UI/AAAAAAAAICY/kR0r4D1u5MA/s400/IMG_1590.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div>Also, Thor movie figures have so far been the only ones to have the actors' and actresses' likenesses used freely for the face sculpt. &nbsp;You'd be hard pressed to find that Avengers unmasked Captain America variant and as far as I know, there's no Tony Stark Robert Downey Jr head. &nbsp;Nick Fury out of Iron Man 2 is in a 4-pack that's also rare, while the new Avengers Fury figure is yet to come of at all. &nbsp;Jeremey Renner's Hawkeye is set to be shortpacked, while the ScarJo Black Widow is even rarer. All this makes Chris Hemsworth Thor more worthwhile to have!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h8mHh9A_fno/T9uxMfUrTNI/AAAAAAAAICo/Y9EF5Cf3sso/s1600/Attack+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h8mHh9A_fno/T9uxMfUrTNI/AAAAAAAAICo/Y9EF5Cf3sso/s640/Attack+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s-S3PI4fxQQ/T9uxPGlcxwI/AAAAAAAAICw/6YUMiIDjXok/s1600/Attack+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s-S3PI4fxQQ/T9uxPGlcxwI/AAAAAAAAICw/6YUMiIDjXok/s640/Attack+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JUxfARW6Gz4/T9uxR7s8OBI/AAAAAAAAIC4/4yz1V_e4ebI/s1600/Attack+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JUxfARW6Gz4/T9uxR7s8OBI/AAAAAAAAIC4/4yz1V_e4ebI/s640/Attack+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div>http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/06/thor-mighty-avenger-375-hammer-smash.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-9113299655392978711Wed, 13 Jun 2012 21:16:00 +00002012-06-15T03:22:53.661+08:003.75-inchAction Figure ComicsAvengersCaptain AmericaMarvel UniverseUltimate Captain AmericaUltimatesThe Avengers 3.75" Super Shield (Ultimates) Captain America<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hsUCCjX9OmQ/T9j5KU81f6I/AAAAAAAAH80/CQ6f_6kFMLU/s1600/IMG_1448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hsUCCjX9OmQ/T9j5KU81f6I/AAAAAAAAH80/CQ6f_6kFMLU/s320/IMG_1448.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Since the&nbsp;Avengers&nbsp;toys have been released, I've been going to toy stores and passing on the 3.75" movie figures. &nbsp;But it's funny how each time I see the toys, I'll take closer look and suddenly find something I like about a figure that I didn't spot earlier.</div><div><br /></div><div>Maybe I was put off by some of the worst articulation that Hasbro has put on its figures in a years. &nbsp;So glaring were the lack of ankles here, the missing chest pivot there, that I couldn't see past the flaws to the good qualities that were staring me in the face.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6K6PMKkcCAY/T9j5Pn48L9I/AAAAAAAAH88/0AyMNiPvUGE/s1600/IMG_1449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6K6PMKkcCAY/T9j5Pn48L9I/AAAAAAAAH88/0AyMNiPvUGE/s320/IMG_1449.JPG" width="240" /></a>Take Super Shield captain America here, for example. &nbsp;It took me a long while to realize that this was Ultimates Captain America (my fave comics Cap) with a kickass vest and belt. &nbsp;What I also missed was that this version of Ultimates Cap had wrist swivels where the movie line release didn't! &nbsp;I had also failed to realize that this version of the figure was painted a nicer, deeper blue than the <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2011/06/captain-america-first-avenger-375.html">Cap movie Ultimates version</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>So with my interest piqued, I couldn't resist picking this guy up. &nbsp;To my surprise, there were quite a few more changes to the figure that make it a completely different Cap from its predecessor.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g8Nzrg6HtNk/T9j5RmEiKWI/AAAAAAAAH9E/XWOGd75BmOc/s1600/IMG_1450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g8Nzrg6HtNk/T9j5RmEiKWI/AAAAAAAAH9E/XWOGd75BmOc/s640/IMG_1450.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /></div><div><a name='more'></a></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-20MmqG8eM8Y/T9j5bCpb6kI/AAAAAAAAH9M/MTQ-dcpKGHk/s1600/IMG_1454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-20MmqG8eM8Y/T9j5bCpb6kI/AAAAAAAAH9M/MTQ-dcpKGHk/s320/IMG_1454.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Movie version (left), and (Studly) Avengers version (right)</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The height! &nbsp;Somehow movie Cap figures turned out shorter across the board and across the scales, which is super weird. &nbsp;This guy is taller than Ultimates Cap. &nbsp;Longer limbs, with the thigh beneath the cut and above the knee longer. &nbsp;The length of everything else is the same. (Heh.) &nbsp;At first I though the calf was longer too but it only looked that way because there's a single hinge at the knee instead of the double that we've come to know and love so well.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-54by1ZdE7cg/T9j6r6OH1wI/AAAAAAAAH_k/X7c9f-eDb8Q/s1600/CIMG1122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-54by1ZdE7cg/T9j6r6OH1wI/AAAAAAAAH_k/X7c9f-eDb8Q/s200/CIMG1122.JPG" width="157" /></a>Super Shield Cap's upper arms are also longer and as a result his hands fall to about halfway down his thighs when at his side, which is the "normal" human length/proportion.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KT1tmh14fIM/T9j6vVBaJqI/AAAAAAAAH_s/dI9-UqPdBv4/s1600/CIMG1124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KT1tmh14fIM/T9j6vVBaJqI/AAAAAAAAH_s/dI9-UqPdBv4/s200/CIMG1124.JPG" width="176" /></a>The differences are slight enough that you wouldn't be able to see them unless you had both figures side by side. &nbsp;But they do make a huge difference when you have this Cap posed next to a Marvel Universe female figure, for example. &nbsp;He's now tall enough that he won't look like Tyrion Lannister next to, well, anyone. &nbsp;Heh.<br /><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5pZGmunqV3Y/T9j5lnDW1NI/AAAAAAAAH9c/Sbzem5mQE-c/s1600/IMG_1456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5pZGmunqV3Y/T9j5lnDW1NI/AAAAAAAAH9c/Sbzem5mQE-c/s320/IMG_1456.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The utility vest and belt. &nbsp;Makes him look truly hardcore. &nbsp;Something the Ultimates Cap would wear for sure because he uses all sorts of weapons and equipment--it's part of his ability to form the perfect battle strategy. &nbsp;It's function over aesthetics but actually serves to make him look a lot more battle ready. &nbsp;The only bad thing about the vest and belt is that they aren't removable.<br /><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GKAw8FOhopY/T9j5ySnjGUI/AAAAAAAAH90/ynAlZQ_Su8o/s1600/IMG_1460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GKAw8FOhopY/T9j5ySnjGUI/AAAAAAAAH90/ynAlZQ_Su8o/s320/IMG_1460.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> The poor paint apps, especially for the mask and face. &nbsp;Blurry lines make it look kinda messy up close. &nbsp;I had to look through all twenty or so figures on the pegs to find this decent looking one.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7jhmj_w8zy0/T9j5p2MxXaI/AAAAAAAAH9k/XTWigAQzTkg/s1600/IMG_1457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7jhmj_w8zy0/T9j5p2MxXaI/AAAAAAAAH9k/XTWigAQzTkg/s200/IMG_1457.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="color: red;"><b>Dislike:</b></span> No chest, waist or ankle articulation!</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b>&nbsp;Still can pose, but not as convincingly. &nbsp;Boy do miss the chest pivot on this guy!</div><div><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Idea for shield. &nbsp;If they had a way of streamlining these, I would be a fan. &nbsp;But it always turns out too bulky and thick, and looks like yet another&nbsp;poorly executed meat pie shield. &nbsp;It's also always so heavy that Cap can barely hold onto it without falling over and/or have his arm sag under the weight. :(</div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E110m-S6YCE/T9j66HvisCI/AAAAAAAAIAE/WQHIYhfgwoU/s1600/CIMG1129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E110m-S6YCE/T9j66HvisCI/AAAAAAAAIAE/WQHIYhfgwoU/s200/CIMG1129.JPG" width="195" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Push in the tab...</td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G86mYEHr6o4/T9j6-QCDc8I/AAAAAAAAIAM/aqPOWTv5i3E/s1600/CIMG1130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G86mYEHr6o4/T9j6-QCDc8I/AAAAAAAAIAM/aqPOWTv5i3E/s200/CIMG1130.JPG" width="190" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And it does?...Yeah...Lol</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> No real guns or shield, just a "rocket pack" that doubles as a clunky gun. &nbsp;Sorta.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> Weird "Doomsday" knee caps. &nbsp;It's bad enough that they've gone from double-hinge knees to single hinges. &nbsp;Doing it so that the knee cap sticks out like a bone&nbsp;protrusion&nbsp;when he's got the knee bent also just looks strange.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cwvNaXZ7D20/T9j6zAqj7iI/AAAAAAAAH_0/2FemYeVXXJ0/s1600/CIMG1126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cwvNaXZ7D20/T9j6zAqj7iI/AAAAAAAAH_0/2FemYeVXXJ0/s200/CIMG1126.JPG" width="194" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YDhCUe7NrfQ/T9j6DAG3SMI/AAAAAAAAH-U/Lh5u7Qv1lcA/s1600/IMG_1461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YDhCUe7NrfQ/T9j6DAG3SMI/AAAAAAAAH-U/Lh5u7Qv1lcA/s200/IMG_1461.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HEPGuv6PdmA/T9j5gZpk2gI/AAAAAAAAH9U/wd470F0jxqs/s1600/IMG_1455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HEPGuv6PdmA/T9j5gZpk2gI/AAAAAAAAH9U/wd470F0jxqs/s200/IMG_1455.JPG" width="100" /></a></div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vWfhKNny10I/T9j6XOaiXDI/AAAAAAAAH-8/mAUP7yeIe6g/s1600/IMG_1475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vWfhKNny10I/T9j6XOaiXDI/AAAAAAAAH-8/mAUP7yeIe6g/s320/IMG_1475.JPG" width="279" /></a></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sLHj_cnwu9Q/T9j52gCdsXI/AAAAAAAAH98/cEuT8pBTni0/s1600/IMG_1462.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sLHj_cnwu9Q/T9j52gCdsXI/AAAAAAAAH98/cEuT8pBTni0/s200/IMG_1462.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="200" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Overall proportions. He's more&nbsp;proportionate&nbsp;looking than Cap Movie Ultimate Cap, who lacks a certain lankiness and looks more like a body builder, with his arms and legs a little too stubby.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b>&nbsp;That the parts of him I dislike may be easily customizable. &nbsp;I'm thinking of switching out his knees with his predecessor, which will make him tons better.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yr4pl3QpKg8/T9j6S9G2-rI/AAAAAAAAH-0/FIMkYU4N0gI/s1600/IMG_1473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yr4pl3QpKg8/T9j6S9G2-rI/AAAAAAAAH-0/FIMkYU4N0gI/s320/IMG_1473.JPG" width="298" /></a>In truth though, I'd need the torso (for the chest pivot), the double knees (as mentioned), and the swivel/hinges at the elbows&nbsp;off the older figure.<br /><br />Off this guy, I'd keep the upper arms, the thighs, and the wrist swivels.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rFvo_eMAXyE/T9j6Ha0yWBI/AAAAAAAAH-c/M7ZytY90dl0/s1600/IMG_1467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rFvo_eMAXyE/T9j6Ha0yWBI/AAAAAAAAH-c/M7ZytY90dl0/s320/IMG_1467.JPG" width="240" /></a>It all works out great&nbsp;until&nbsp;you get to the arms--he can't have both the longer upper arms and the swivel/hinge forearms because the joint at the elbow is different for both figures. :/<br /><br />One thing's for sure--I'd keep the vest and belt no matter what. &nbsp;Pity that they aren't removable like in most cases with GI Joes. &nbsp;Then again, he's not a Joe. &nbsp;But he should be better! &nbsp;;P<br /><br /><h3> <b><u>RATINGS</u></b></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0KSkFjGai_0/T9j6L-324qI/AAAAAAAAH-k/UW9le6smmio/s1600/IMG_1470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0KSkFjGai_0/T9j6L-324qI/AAAAAAAAH-k/UW9le6smmio/s200/IMG_1470.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Aesthetics: 8/10</span></b> - This is the only area that's up to scratch in most cases where 3.75" Avengers are concerned. &nbsp;Hasbro did a great job of producing good-to-look-at figures but I don't think we can be too overjoyed--when money became an issue in toy&nbsp;production, this is the one thing they knew they couldn't compromise on. &nbsp;If the toys didn't at least look good, no kids would buy them. &nbsp;Marketing 101: it's all about packaging, both literally and figuratively.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YATsBfsUIuI/T9j56X3UQwI/AAAAAAAAH-E/WX3ZRIKAo9w/s1600/IMG_1466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YATsBfsUIuI/T9j56X3UQwI/AAAAAAAAH-E/WX3ZRIKAo9w/s320/IMG_1466.JPG" width="240" /></a>Let's put it this way: Super Shield Cap turned out good-looking enough for me to buy, so why not to all those kids out there who saw the movie? &nbsp;What can I say? &nbsp;I'm just a big kid. ;)<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XyVu4aveQ-4/T9j6iWKmYaI/AAAAAAAAH_U/qJZpFxnLdB4/s1600/SS+Cap+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XyVu4aveQ-4/T9j6iWKmYaI/AAAAAAAAH_U/qJZpFxnLdB4/s320/SS+Cap+Art.jpg" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Poseability: 7/10</span></b> - Good, but the missing chest pivot really limits him. &nbsp;It's not the ankles, it's not even the lack of a swivel at the elbow or the bicep (though either would've been great!). &nbsp;A chest joint would've allowed Cap to look up better (the head ball is more of a swivel), turn at the torso to punch, swing, crunch, and do all the cool looking hand supported leaps and jumps and flips. &nbsp;So that where he loses most of his points.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eqo04i-82AY/T9j6b9cFulI/AAAAAAAAH_E/zIWgViFdFmg/s1600/IMG_1476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eqo04i-82AY/T9j6b9cFulI/AAAAAAAAH_E/zIWgViFdFmg/s200/IMG_1476.JPG" width="150" /></a>Still, SS Cap can still pose quite a bit and can even do high kicks,&nbsp;wield&nbsp;guns, and swing his shield, though most of it ends up looking less explosive than if he'd at least had a waist swivel.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4eaD8K5tnvU/T9j6ffmHLsI/AAAAAAAAH_M/H0ob7MJ0Izg/s1600/IMG_1477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4eaD8K5tnvU/T9j6ffmHLsI/AAAAAAAAH_M/H0ob7MJ0Izg/s200/IMG_1477.JPG" width="178" /></a><b style="color: #38761d;">Fun: 7.5 - </b>Strangely, this guy turned out to be more fun than I'd thought he'd be. &nbsp;With limited movement, a(nother) dud shield and little else, his play value is limited too. &nbsp;But once you throw in a regular Cap shield, give him a sidearm or assault rifle, and have him in one of his vehicles (4x4, <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2012/04/avengers-captain-america-goliath.html">Goliath Assault Tank</a> or <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2012/05/avengers-stark-tech-assault-armour.html">StarkTech Assault Armour</a>), he's a ton more fun. &nbsp;Then again, that could be said of all Caps. &nbsp;Heck, it could be said of all figures, so yeah...<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-euJ3TT4r7do/T9j6P3sDs_I/AAAAAAAAH-s/50YckJDi48I/s1600/IMG_1472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-euJ3TT4r7do/T9j6P3sDs_I/AAAAAAAAH-s/50YckJDi48I/s320/IMG_1472.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Value: 6.5/10</span></b> - Super&nbsp;Shield&nbsp;Cap only comes with a hunk of plastic that's neither a shield or a gun or a rocket pack. &nbsp;Takes a little bit of each and ends up being none of them. &nbsp;His vest and belt are brilliantly sculpted with detail and fit really well on him--but they shouldn't be counted as accessories though I'm sure they've been factored into the production cost of the figure. &nbsp;With prices higher and quantity (of accessories) lacking, I can't but feel we're getting less and less as toy-lovers.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4loTfS7vJ7E/T9j5t-r58fI/AAAAAAAAH9s/npndguxdbaU/s1600/IMG_1459.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4loTfS7vJ7E/T9j5t-r58fI/AAAAAAAAH9s/npndguxdbaU/s200/IMG_1459.JPG" width="180" /></a><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Overall: 7.25/10 - A Good toy with some flaws -</b></span> I wish all the good qualities of this figure had been combined with the good qualities of&nbsp;the&nbsp;older one into one figure by Hasbro. &nbsp;Then he'd be perfect. &nbsp;But alas...As it is, it's rare that any one figure is "perfect"&nbsp;but finding great qualities on&nbsp;similar&nbsp;two figures may not be a bad thing because you may be able to easily combine them both into something way better. &nbsp;Cap here, along with his Cap movie line&nbsp;counterpart&nbsp;is the perfect example. And if there's anything good that has come out of an "inferior" line of figures for the Avengers movie, it's that I now really am more tempted to kit-bash and customize than ever!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-91v91RcffaE/T9j6nqVK8yI/AAAAAAAAH_c/t8O7eaMkZhg/s1600/Pies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-91v91RcffaE/T9j6nqVK8yI/AAAAAAAAH_c/t8O7eaMkZhg/s640/Pies.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /></div>http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/06/avengers-375-super-shield-ultimates.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-3584212643968259643Fri, 08 Jun 2012 02:41:00 +00002012-06-15T03:23:52.795+08:006-inchFather's DayHulkMarvel SelectMarvel UniverseThe AvengersThe Avengers: Marvel Select Hulk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GH4FruIX7r8/T9E0PomtqDI/AAAAAAAAH4U/HzHz2TU3unI/s1600/IMG_1486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GH4FruIX7r8/T9E0PomtqDI/AAAAAAAAH4U/HzHz2TU3unI/s320/IMG_1486.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>As I write this review, I'm running around the house screaming like a little kid on Christmas morning who just got <i>exactly</i> what he wanted from Santa. &nbsp;Except that it's not Christmas but Fathers' day soon. &nbsp;And I'm not really running around the house, but more like lying around, imagining what it would be like running around. &nbsp;And there's no Santa this time of year, but an awesome wifey and son--because this is what they surprised me with just a few days ago!<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gHGJtz_uUDo/T9E0VaXB80I/AAAAAAAAH4c/l1pR0gGgOi0/s1600/IMG_1487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gHGJtz_uUDo/T9E0VaXB80I/AAAAAAAAH4c/l1pR0gGgOi0/s320/IMG_1487.JPG" width="240" /></a>I'd already put down my order with my fave specialty store (Toyrealm at China Square central ;P) but I'd been going on and on about how I'd still snag Hulk if I saw him for sure if I saw him anywhere else, how I regretted not picking it up about 2 weeks back when a guy at the local "flea" market had a couple of the Jolly Green Giants selling at a pretty high price (about 120% of retail), and how this Hulk would make me the coolest father on the planet along with the rest of the people who also had him.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NbJ7s5sFXh8/T9E0ZXffQyI/AAAAAAAAH4k/DFHQLf1_SxU/s1600/IMG_1489.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NbJ7s5sFXh8/T9E0ZXffQyI/AAAAAAAAH4k/DFHQLf1_SxU/s320/IMG_1489.JPG" width="212" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NGL5q7vDq-8/T9E0cQq0__I/AAAAAAAAH4s/StSE3j2PMWY/s1600/IMG_1495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NGL5q7vDq-8/T9E0cQq0__I/AAAAAAAAH4s/StSE3j2PMWY/s320/IMG_1495.JPG" width="139" /></a>The specialty store's shipment wasn't due in until later this month and I was resigned to not truly being cool for another few weeks. &nbsp;So imagine my surprise when the wife shows up with a huge bag with not one but <i>two</i> Marvel Select figures in it and hands it to me! &nbsp;Happy Father's day indeed!<br /><br />What was the other figure? &nbsp;Movie Loki, of course &nbsp;"So that I could re-enact the 'Puny god' scene from The Avengers for a chuckle or six until The Avengers 2 rolls around in 2015." &nbsp;That's how she explained it. &nbsp;But I suspect it might have been to shut me up from talking about Marvel Select Hulk every waking minute. &nbsp;And probably sometimes in my sleep too. &nbsp;;P<br /><br />No guesses how the figure turned out. &nbsp;But why let me stop you from checking out the review and the awesome photos? ;D<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V4ZGNkmcIX0/T9E1IjjapZI/AAAAAAAAH6M/T0wZmZdVBT4/s1600/IMG_1516.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V4ZGNkmcIX0/T9E1IjjapZI/AAAAAAAAH6M/T0wZmZdVBT4/s320/IMG_1516.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The sculpt is perfect! &nbsp;One look and there's no doubt that this is the Avengers Hulk. &nbsp;The blockbuster of a summer flick really made him&nbsp;recognizable&nbsp;again among the mainstream audience. &nbsp;I say really because I suspect our parents'&nbsp;generation&nbsp;(or at least the guys) knew their superheroes. &nbsp;That's how I knew them too. ;)<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dRw2V-69X8E/T9E0fyKy_RI/AAAAAAAAH40/3J9kVyiB0aA/s1600/IMG_1496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="304" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dRw2V-69X8E/T9E0fyKy_RI/AAAAAAAAH40/3J9kVyiB0aA/s320/IMG_1496.JPG" width="320" /></a>This sculpt cements the movie look superbly. &nbsp;One of the key things too is that this Hulk focuses on being big and powerful as opposed to being&nbsp;extremely&nbsp;chiseled&nbsp;and cut, a fact pointed out to me by my partner-in-plastic-crime the Rangerlord. (No, he's not a blow-up doll). &nbsp;In fact, one of the thing I actually didn't like from the glimpses we got from the movie trailers was that he looked <i>less</i> cut. &nbsp;But boy was I wrong about liking him less overall.Kudos to Joss Whedon and whomever else was involved in the CG design. &nbsp;And also hats off to Mark Ruffalo, who's personality as Bruce&nbsp;Banner&nbsp;really shone through even when he was all Hulked up!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h9e52UasWAA/T9E1sHniAgI/AAAAAAAAH7k/T03n_KHujW0/s1600/IMG_1543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h9e52UasWAA/T9E1sHniAgI/AAAAAAAAH7k/T03n_KHujW0/s320/IMG_1543.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Special mention goes to the toes--they're sculpted separately from each other! &nbsp;Not many 6" figures done this way, if at all!<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3OiRE1jIdO0/T9E1crC2eMI/AAAAAAAAH68/502M9Z0YdYQ/s1600/IMG_1535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3OiRE1jIdO0/T9E1crC2eMI/AAAAAAAAH68/502M9Z0YdYQ/s200/IMG_1535.JPG" width="145" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The excellent head sculpt. &nbsp;If I could sum it up in one sentence/math equation, I'd say: on-screen Hulk looks like Mark Ruffalo looks like this head sculpt! &nbsp;Though his sort-of grimace isn't the expression I'd pick as first choice, it's better than a dour look or anything else neutral.<br /><br />What makes the head a winner are details like the sculpted teeth, the wrinkles and creases, and the unevenness of things like his lips, the size of his eyes, and the number of lines on each side of his face. &nbsp;But what I really dig most of all is the hair! &nbsp;It's a separate piece and thus very neatly painted. &nbsp;It's spiked and ruffled, as is fitting for an actor named Ruffalo!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vA_tlWHm-I4/T9E1eYvA9EI/AAAAAAAAH7E/-tKRFlGM3AQ/s1600/IMG_1536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vA_tlWHm-I4/T9E1eYvA9EI/AAAAAAAAH7E/-tKRFlGM3AQ/s200/IMG_1536.JPG" width="173" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fKxSlTsJGP0/T9E1XcChDhI/AAAAAAAAH6s/wPkTq7d4wl8/s1600/IMG_1531.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fKxSlTsJGP0/T9E1XcChDhI/AAAAAAAAH6s/wPkTq7d4wl8/s200/IMG_1531.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fhHRWUd7pfk/T9E1gc_Hx9I/AAAAAAAAH7M/bkti4Q2rjC0/s1600/IMG_1537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fhHRWUd7pfk/T9E1gc_Hx9I/AAAAAAAAH7M/bkti4Q2rjC0/s200/IMG_1537.JPG" width="177" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b>&nbsp;The paint is near perfect. &nbsp;The colour is great and as near to the movie Hulk green as I can tell. &nbsp;There is some paint wear around his neck area, and shoulder though. &nbsp;But I think it was down to me moving his head and arms around a little too much. &nbsp;The wear is inevitable if like me you like to play with your toys, especially when you have joints as neat and solid as Hulk and most Marvel Select figures do.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ymxGenwHVl4/T9E0q_2AsCI/AAAAAAAAH5M/xRiCicFk9XE/s1600/IMG_1502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ymxGenwHVl4/T9E0q_2AsCI/AAAAAAAAH5M/xRiCicFk9XE/s320/IMG_1502.JPG" width="315" /></a></div>A lot of Hulk is painted but you can't tell unless you look really closely because the paint and sculpt colours are a dead match. &nbsp;Even up close, i have trouble telling what's painted and what's cast in colour. &nbsp;So far as I can tell, the lower thighs above the knees are sculpted in brown to match his pants (also sculpted brown), with the skin areas painted green.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iZzJRSMU2i0/T9E0jiruLCI/AAAAAAAAH48/7eCwWJc0Ewc/s1600/IMG_1498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iZzJRSMU2i0/T9E0jiruLCI/AAAAAAAAH48/7eCwWJc0Ewc/s320/IMG_1498.JPG" width="240" /></a>There are some messy edges like his trouser line and some spills from the green onto the torn edges of the pants, but these are very slight and don't detract from important parts like the face and skin.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The number of points of articulation is superb. &nbsp;For a figure this size from Marvel Select, he's got more than the norm that they usually give their action figures. &nbsp;Hulk's got 24 PoAs and is very DC Universe Classics-like in this area.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TPPn8HBYKGY/T9E0uOjtEJI/AAAAAAAAH5U/nHbHRcXzcW8/s1600/IMG_1503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TPPn8HBYKGY/T9E0uOjtEJI/AAAAAAAAH5U/nHbHRcXzcW8/s320/IMG_1503.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The hinge/swivel ankle joints. &nbsp;These are like the new 3.75" Marvel Universe ankles. &nbsp;Their really solid but not so tight you feel like you're about to break other parts just trying to move it. &nbsp;Unlike conventional swivel/hinge ankles, the hinge is in the lower leg as opposed to the foot. &nbsp;And the swivel post is plugged forward into the foot like you would wear a shoe. &nbsp;This allows the foot to rotate around the base of the leg like a real ankle would. &nbsp;And it allows stances with feet flat on the ground or on the toes. &nbsp;As a result, most figures (and humans!) can only dream of doing what Hulk can do.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RbqhMww6LPs/T9E1PY82TRI/AAAAAAAAH6c/uLI2K4tlIHw/s1600/Avengers+Hulk+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RbqhMww6LPs/T9E1PY82TRI/AAAAAAAAH6c/uLI2K4tlIHw/s320/Avengers+Hulk+Art.jpg" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b>&nbsp;That his legs can hinge forward and back only about 45 degrees. &nbsp;That's great for backwards but not much so for forwards and prevents Hulk from fully going down on one knee (To propose, of course. &nbsp;What else? &nbsp;Nah, to propose destruction!!! &nbsp;;P) &nbsp;This stops him from really getting his body weight forward onto the front foot for when you want him throwing all his weight behind &nbsp;punch or a double-fisted "Hulk smash". &nbsp;It also prevents him from doing a classic hunched over look while standing.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-egTqDSOlkN8/T9E1TV7SBxI/AAAAAAAAH6k/eJREQHZGd7c/s1600/IMG_1530.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-egTqDSOlkN8/T9E1TV7SBxI/AAAAAAAAH6k/eJREQHZGd7c/s320/IMG_1530.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b>&nbsp; The bulk of figure! &nbsp;There's no shortage of plastic here, unlike the Ultimate Hulk, which is one of the few figures to have been rotocast. &nbsp;Avengers Hulk is heavy! &nbsp;And woe be the person who drops him on a toe!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rYYGU-422yU/T9E0nnEdPwI/AAAAAAAAH5E/ks24BG_X-nw/s1600/IMG_1501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rYYGU-422yU/T9E0nnEdPwI/AAAAAAAAH5E/ks24BG_X-nw/s200/IMG_1501.JPG" width="150" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> I love the real tightness of the joints. &nbsp;His leg/hip and knee hinges are ratcheted, making it near impossible that he'll ever fall over. &nbsp;When the joints are not tight, they're smooth. &nbsp;For example, the head, the arms, the wrists and the feet. &nbsp;All are solidly put together. &nbsp;Safe to say that hulk will never have any loose joints out of the package.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F2tHaDOc318/T9E01aTCuLI/AAAAAAAAH5k/yXkBJPYAE44/s1600/IMG_1506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F2tHaDOc318/T9E01aTCuLI/AAAAAAAAH5k/yXkBJPYAE44/s320/IMG_1506.JPG" width="277" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> His chest pivot is limited. &nbsp;Oh well, you can't win 'em all. &nbsp;While it rotates smoothly, you can only turn it just about 45 degrees left and right. &nbsp;But here's the trick: if you pivot backwards first and then rotate, you can get almost 90 degrees out to each side without damaging the paint or sculpt.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cmlw2rNtFKQ/T9E087QZL1I/AAAAAAAAH50/cl100alGJMY/s1600/IMG_1508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cmlw2rNtFKQ/T9E087QZL1I/AAAAAAAAH50/cl100alGJMY/s320/IMG_1508.JPG" width="240" /></a>Also, the chest pivots backwards and forwards a lot less than I'd like. &nbsp;So he can't really crunch down or arch back. &nbsp;For poses that need those, he has to rely on his leg/hip hinges, which are decent, but not good enough to cover up for the limits of the chest. &nbsp;I can fully understand the decision though--it looks as if giving him more flexibility here would really break the sculpt, and Marvel Select is all about a good-looking figure, so they would've compromised on their own standards of quality.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pvXXU01djSM/T9E1MQgNVQI/AAAAAAAAH6U/gSBmIzz5A8Q/s1600/IMG_1528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="414" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pvXXU01djSM/T9E1MQgNVQI/AAAAAAAAH6U/gSBmIzz5A8Q/s640/IMG_1528.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Hulk: Ultimate, Avenger, Legend.</td></tr></tbody></table><h3> <u><b>RATINGS</b></u></h3><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9rKwA7EQBw/T9E0xtKI0GI/AAAAAAAAH5c/zlc5YGR63JE/s1600/IMG_1505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9rKwA7EQBw/T9E0xtKI0GI/AAAAAAAAH5c/zlc5YGR63JE/s320/IMG_1505.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Aesthetics: 10/10</span></b> - There's no way you wouldn't at least pick this off the shelf to take a second look. &nbsp;There's also no way you wouldn't be impressed with the Hulk even when he's separated from you by all that plastic, let alone when he's been busted out of the plastic carbonite. &nbsp;There are figures that make you think twice when you see pictures or even when have them in hand. <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VSgYA6siVJk/T9E1awfMBqI/AAAAAAAAH60/hBGAWpnWC9g/s1600/IMG_1533.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VSgYA6siVJk/T9E1awfMBqI/AAAAAAAAH60/hBGAWpnWC9g/s200/IMG_1533.JPG" width="175" /></a>Hulk was one of those I wanted to get right from the 1st time I saw online pics. &nbsp;A perfect and accurate movie sculpt, great paint apps and details (look at those eyes too!), and sheer size!--he's really got them all. &nbsp;And he isn't too big either, meaning he'll fit in perfectly with any 6" Marvel Legends scale figures, movie line or otherwise.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cqGJQCnD_P0/T9E1A8Bb1dI/AAAAAAAAH58/mo9uUXMvRmY/s1600/IMG_1511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cqGJQCnD_P0/T9E1A8Bb1dI/AAAAAAAAH58/mo9uUXMvRmY/s320/IMG_1511.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4VZRq9I6AUw/T9E05IvI56I/AAAAAAAAH5s/FoVGhYs1p5g/s1600/IMG_1507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4VZRq9I6AUw/T9E05IvI56I/AAAAAAAAH5s/FoVGhYs1p5g/s200/IMG_1507.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Poseability: 9/10</span></b> - Marvel Select figures are not known at all for being super&nbsp;articulated, but Hulk is a fan's dream come true. &nbsp;Sure, he's got certain PoAs that are limited (his head also can't move upwards or downwards fully), but he's super flexible for a figure this bulky. &nbsp;I also have the Thing and Ultimates Hulk and they don't even come close to what Avengers Hulk can do. &nbsp;Heck, most 3.75" scale figures can't even do what he does. &nbsp;And those are made to be played with more than for sitting pretty on a shelf. &nbsp;Hulk can do both and then some!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z7th54Z0Iys/T9E1oChKNVI/AAAAAAAAH7c/zti77Lc1Oh4/s1600/IMG_1539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z7th54Z0Iys/T9E1oChKNVI/AAAAAAAAH7c/zti77Lc1Oh4/s320/IMG_1539.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P77WRJFFNgo/T9E108xehQI/AAAAAAAAH70/G4iC_MEuIOw/s1600/IMG_1547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P77WRJFFNgo/T9E108xehQI/AAAAAAAAH70/G4iC_MEuIOw/s200/IMG_1547.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5SmWg-kLoT4/T9E1E97r29I/AAAAAAAAH6E/3qRSQWzkzlw/s1600/IMG_1512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5SmWg-kLoT4/T9E1E97r29I/AAAAAAAAH6E/3qRSQWzkzlw/s200/IMG_1512.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Fun: 10/10</span></b> - A fully poseable figure that looks this good? &nbsp;Can't be anything else <i>but</i> fun. &nbsp;Hulk plays really well with other figures from the Marvel Select and Legends lines and I'm sure DCUC figures will also look great alongside if a crossover's your thing. <br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1oOgiP9O-Ow/T9E182Q65QI/AAAAAAAAH8E/hjmCRy6lowo/s1600/IMG_1550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1oOgiP9O-Ow/T9E182Q65QI/AAAAAAAAH8E/hjmCRy6lowo/s320/IMG_1550.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />Having Hulk makes me want to carry him around with me wherever I go, which is what I did when I met up with the Rangerlord recently. &nbsp;He wasn't at all keen on picking this guy up initially, but one live demonstration later and he was converted. ;) &nbsp;That's what a figure can truly do if it's fun!<br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bKJDZc4o01k/T9E2IubhGyI/AAAAAAAAH8c/KP40zBSKcUE/s1600/IMG_1553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bKJDZc4o01k/T9E2IubhGyI/AAAAAAAAH8c/KP40zBSKcUE/s200/IMG_1553.JPG" width="188" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Value: 10/10</span></b> - &nbsp;Hulk doesn't come with any accessories or bases, which is what Select usually packs in with their figures. &nbsp;But heck, he's a hunk of plastic that will probably put a hole in your window if you decide chuck him at one. &nbsp;With the amount of detail and paint in and on the sculpt and the&nbsp;articulation&nbsp;that he's got, some are saying this is the <i>best</i> Hulk figure ever. &nbsp;<i>Ever!</i>&nbsp; I'll have to agree, though I also would add that the movie portrayal of our green friend has something to do with it too. &nbsp;Get him&nbsp;before&nbsp;his price shoots up!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EqiQ_1aNgZY/T9E2FIQM3TI/AAAAAAAAH8U/0ZYDd2sdl_Y/s1600/IMG_1552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EqiQ_1aNgZY/T9E2FIQM3TI/AAAAAAAAH8U/0ZYDd2sdl_Y/s320/IMG_1552.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Overall: 9.75/10</span></b>&nbsp;-<b><span style="color: #38761d;"> I'd almost give an arm or a leg (plastic or otherwise) for this figure! (But I'm lucky I didn't have to to. &nbsp;Lol.)</span></b> -<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k9CYxHbqR1Y/T9E15ENqaBI/AAAAAAAAH78/00RvPJNRY3I/s1600/IMG_1549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k9CYxHbqR1Y/T9E15ENqaBI/AAAAAAAAH78/00RvPJNRY3I/s320/IMG_1549.JPG" width="240" /></a>If he's not the near perfect figure, then he's the near perfect Hulk figure. &nbsp;And I think he sets a new high score for the reviews right here on Chase Variant! &nbsp;Ha! &nbsp;Any closer to perfect and you'd probably have to replicate the Gamma Ray incident that made Banner the Hulk.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--70EtoFXiJE/T9E2M_xnd0I/AAAAAAAAH8k/wq9BZPb-0PY/s1600/IMG_1556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--70EtoFXiJE/T9E2M_xnd0I/AAAAAAAAH8k/wq9BZPb-0PY/s320/IMG_1556.JPG" width="320" /></a>Even if this guy wasn't the movie Avengers Hulk, he's hands down the best hulk there is. &nbsp;His design is near generic enough to pull this off, yet he's uniquely the Avengers/Mark Ruffalo Hulk . &nbsp;Though I didn't get the next most recently release Marvel Select Hulk (I really didn't dig the look), I do have <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2010/05/marvel-legends-face-of-hulk.html">Marvel Legends Face Off Hulk</a>, <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2010/06/marvel-legends-hulk-series-king-hulk.html">King Hulk</a>, and <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2011/02/marvel-universe-375-world-war-hulk.html">Marvel Universe World War Hulk</a> and <a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.sg/2011/06/marvel-universe-375-classic-avengers-3.html">Classic Avengers 3-pack Hulk</a> among others. &nbsp;I consider those some of the best Hulks made but there's no doubt which Hulk is my favourite now. ;)<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YWgvbPPxreU/T9E2AyEFZDI/AAAAAAAAH8M/L7msjLlYGto/s1600/IMG_1551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YWgvbPPxreU/T9E2AyEFZDI/AAAAAAAAH8M/L7msjLlYGto/s640/IMG_1551.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I couldn't resist! &nbsp;And apparently, the Hulk couldn't too!</td></tr></tbody></table><br />http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/06/marvel-select-avengers-hulk.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-3058630561814634601Sun, 27 May 2012 21:24:00 +00002012-06-15T03:25:01.590+08:00AvengersAvenging CycleCaptain AmericaChitauriLegoMarvel UniverseSuperheroesLego - The Avengers: Captain America's Avenging Cycle!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Re7QkoUf97I/T8KPr4L-8DI/AAAAAAAAHyo/NU6fCdH7STs/s1600/IMG_1406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Re7QkoUf97I/T8KPr4L-8DI/AAAAAAAAHyo/NU6fCdH7STs/s320/IMG_1406.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>While The Avengers action figures are so far proving a little disappointing, there's no doubt that Lego getting the&nbsp;license&nbsp;for the franchise is good news. &nbsp;It's <i>great</i> news indeed that they've finally been released&nbsp;in our favourite brick form--and here's their smallest offering in retail so far!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ThVBuN5HfiY/T8KPxrmBvKI/AAAAAAAAHyw/Ih37t0dPWWE/s1600/IMG_1407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ThVBuN5HfiY/T8KPxrmBvKI/AAAAAAAAHyw/Ih37t0dPWWE/s200/IMG_1407.JPG" width="200" /></a>Though I grabbed the<b> </b>Loki's Cosmic Cube Escape and Hulk Helicarrier Breakout set first, this was soon to follow following its release about a week later. &nbsp;I guess it was also the quickest to put together and that it had one of the figures we've all been waiting for--Captain America! &nbsp;Sure, I was also dying for Hulk, Thor and Iron Man, but hey, Cap really grows on you!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ot_MhNXm-lE/T8KPzh7A_kI/AAAAAAAAHy4/7YY8w4sc4kU/s1600/IMG_1408.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="92" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ot_MhNXm-lE/T8KPzh7A_kI/AAAAAAAAHy4/7YY8w4sc4kU/s320/IMG_1408.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>From his slightly more edgy&nbsp;Ultimates&nbsp;self, to his stance (and death) in Civil War, to his awesome on-screen incarnation, it's no wonder the kids are all seeing stars and stripes. &nbsp;Well, at least mine is. &nbsp;He never fails to point out the Cap shield when he spots it--and he's just over 13 months old!<br /><br />So enough talk and more review action--here we go! ;)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3uTNAqXGHAc/T8KP150wdVI/AAAAAAAAHzA/M1Y6Nh_NeII/s1600/IMG_1409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="164" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3uTNAqXGHAc/T8KP150wdVI/AAAAAAAAHzA/M1Y6Nh_NeII/s640/IMG_1409.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qVXuFUxE12w/T8KP9W-78wI/AAAAAAAAHzQ/1Stx05U-WMk/s1600/IMG_1412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qVXuFUxE12w/T8KP9W-78wI/AAAAAAAAHzQ/1Stx05U-WMk/s200/IMG_1412.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jI7J083nP2M/T8KQBPgXVSI/AAAAAAAAHzY/PUST6wChRlk/s1600/IMG_1413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jI7J083nP2M/T8KQBPgXVSI/AAAAAAAAHzY/PUST6wChRlk/s200/IMG_1413.JPG" width="150" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Lego minifig tampographed details are always awesome, and Captain America is no different. &nbsp;From the standard, must have details like A on his forehead, to the star on his chest, to the minute ones like the utility belt, silver clips and the seams of his uniform, this guy is a delight to look at.<br /><br />There's even a zip along the side of his centre red stripe. &nbsp;That's crazy detail, yo!<br /><br />His head is also done really well, with the eyes and mouth sharp and clear behind the face mask. &nbsp;I also like that they've bothered to tampo the seams at the side and upper back of his head. :)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SpHdmELnUPQ/T8KQQlJM-jI/AAAAAAAAH0A/6JmEPp3ejVo/s1600/IMG_1418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SpHdmELnUPQ/T8KQQlJM-jI/AAAAAAAAH0A/6JmEPp3ejVo/s200/IMG_1418.JPG" width="178" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-co4H6jw7QoU/T8KQW6GviPI/AAAAAAAAH0Q/B51b-K_an2Q/s1600/IMG_1420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-co4H6jw7QoU/T8KQW6GviPI/AAAAAAAAH0Q/B51b-K_an2Q/s200/IMG_1420.JPG" width="140" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yxb05ugq6E8/T8KQaMaVH_I/AAAAAAAAH0Y/akYTBzrpiHk/s1600/IMG_1421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yxb05ugq6E8/T8KQaMaVH_I/AAAAAAAAH0Y/akYTBzrpiHk/s200/IMG_1421.JPG" width="147" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Cap's shield. &nbsp;It's round and flat on the back, but slightly convex on the front, meaning it's a brand new shield sculpt--very nice! &nbsp;Again, the tampoed star and stripes are super sharp and well done--you also know that it'll not scratch or come off if you drop it a few times. &nbsp;This is the sort of quality you get from Legos that other brands can't beat. &nbsp;Yay!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MDKrGOothSc/T8KQKBSlNgI/AAAAAAAAHzw/AKCH0lMrN34/s1600/IMG_1417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MDKrGOothSc/T8KQKBSlNgI/AAAAAAAAHzw/AKCH0lMrN34/s200/IMG_1417.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hkVeZJzn6q8/T8KQFBWBFxI/AAAAAAAAHzg/zYnmGfBBdV8/s1600/IMG_1414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hkVeZJzn6q8/T8KQFBWBFxI/AAAAAAAAHzg/zYnmGfBBdV8/s200/IMG_1414.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3DIEePGh4KM/T8KQHuun0TI/AAAAAAAAHzo/rl3fvg5ZmuU/s1600/IMG_1416.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3DIEePGh4KM/T8KQHuun0TI/AAAAAAAAHzo/rl3fvg5ZmuU/s200/IMG_1416.JPG" width="157" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UBSwkTq9AoU/T8KQT8edemI/AAAAAAAAH0I/Cf4uEhNyl5w/s1600/IMG_1419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UBSwkTq9AoU/T8KQT8edemI/AAAAAAAAH0I/Cf4uEhNyl5w/s320/IMG_1419.JPG" width="209" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The Avenging Cycle! &nbsp;I love the new bike skeleton and the bodies they've developed for it, allowing you to build a dirt bike or a hero-style cycle like this. &nbsp;The bike bodies also require minifigs to straddle a divider to "ride" them. &nbsp;These dividers are a perfect fit, so cap never has to worry about falling off! I'm glad that they gave a bike to Cap for this set. &nbsp;It's homage to the 80s TV series where he rode one as his main form of badassery!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YgrGB9UugwI/T8KRPAs8HeI/AAAAAAAAH2Q/iVMKo-TDUTU/s1600/IMG_1445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YgrGB9UugwI/T8KRPAs8HeI/AAAAAAAAH2Q/iVMKo-TDUTU/s320/IMG_1445.JPG" width="320" /></a>Also, the stickers for the bike are awesome too. &nbsp;There's the SHIELD symbol&nbsp;that goes on the front and the mini circle and stars for the sides. &nbsp;I dunno about you, but I just love sticking stuff! &nbsp;I guess it gets me involved in the creative process of finishing the toy. &nbsp;Also, if I don't like the sticker, I don't stick it--customization by choice--I can save it for something else later. :)<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6zzUyD9LRvc/T8KQlek-0pI/AAAAAAAAH04/pyzwitaD1zg/s1600/IMG_1441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6zzUyD9LRvc/T8KQlek-0pI/AAAAAAAAH04/pyzwitaD1zg/s200/IMG_1441.JPG" width="134" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pilot back</td></tr></tbody></table><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ilepnP3XItg/T8KQolw7LzI/AAAAAAAAH1A/iPVJ_EryEe4/s1600/IMG_1442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ilepnP3XItg/T8KQolw7LzI/AAAAAAAAH1A/iPVJ_EryEe4/s200/IMG_1442.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That this set comes with two <i>different</i> Chitauri figures, one a darker grey with a sky sled and a lighter greys one with a ground cannon. At first&nbsp;I'd&nbsp;thought them to be exactly the same and it wasn't till I went back to shoot Cap&nbsp;throwing&nbsp;his shield and a couple more bike shots that I realized they were completely different! &nbsp;Yeah, it's not just the colour but also the designs of their face plates, body and leg armor.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Eune6bI3GDo/T8KQgIXB2BI/AAAAAAAAH0o/H-tF7UUMDhE/s1600/Chitauri+1a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Eune6bI3GDo/T8KQgIXB2BI/AAAAAAAAH0o/H-tF7UUMDhE/s200/Chitauri+1a.JPG" width="135" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soldier back</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Being that this is the cheapest Avengers Lego set out there, can anyone say "army builder?"<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_BF8KEN6mUE/T8KQilCuWKI/AAAAAAAAH0w/3sWK3RThA0Q/s1600/IMG_1440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_BF8KEN6mUE/T8KQilCuWKI/AAAAAAAAH0w/3sWK3RThA0Q/s200/IMG_1440.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="143" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pilot front</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That there's a little bit of movie inaccuracy in the minifigs. &nbsp;The ground cannon is not in the movies, and the sled on the big screen actually fits something like 2-4 Chitauri: one pilot and others that shoot random stuff.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VOM8lY8he4E/T8KQ4apDogI/AAAAAAAAH1g/JfCL88RVcBw/s1600/IMG_1425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VOM8lY8he4E/T8KQ4apDogI/AAAAAAAAH1g/JfCL88RVcBw/s200/IMG_1425.JPG" width="175" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That the ground cannon and the sled at least have neat flick missiles. &nbsp;event thought there's instructions to how to do it, it's quite wonderful when you have a toy where you actually build the play feature!<br /><br /><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike: </span></b>That the Chitauri seem to look nothing like they look in the movies. &nbsp;Then again, it's kinda hard to see what they did look like. &nbsp;But credit to Lego, who probably had only pre-production art to work with. &nbsp;One thing that I did like about the lil' aliens, though: that the minifigs have two heads--one masked and one unmasked. &nbsp;The trouble is that both heads are always exposed because they have no hair or anything to cover the rear facing face up.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pXzEPCrjtA4/T8KQwswQ3HI/AAAAAAAAH1Q/S4nczZ0_0Dw/s1600/IMG_1423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pXzEPCrjtA4/T8KQwswQ3HI/AAAAAAAAH1Q/S4nczZ0_0Dw/s200/IMG_1423.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CzpraJnCf9M/T8KQsBUFJfI/AAAAAAAAH1I/AAjdDiPz5_w/s1600/IMG_1422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CzpraJnCf9M/T8KQsBUFJfI/AAAAAAAAH1I/AAjdDiPz5_w/s200/IMG_1422.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YVLq-bBKQu8/T8KQ0Kuh2QI/AAAAAAAAH1Y/81rlC6BI1Rk/s1600/IMG_1424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YVLq-bBKQu8/T8KQ0Kuh2QI/AAAAAAAAH1Y/81rlC6BI1Rk/s200/IMG_1424.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WZ4KB3gv0u8/T8KQ68RCMlI/AAAAAAAAH1o/53sIgv8PNP8/s1600/IMG_1429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WZ4KB3gv0u8/T8KQ68RCMlI/AAAAAAAAH1o/53sIgv8PNP8/s200/IMG_1429.JPG" width="161" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That you can build your own unmasked Steve Rogers! &nbsp;Here I used Superman's head and the standard combed, blonde hair. &nbsp;Works like magic!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JrtZnHqS26U/T8KQ-7axVkI/AAAAAAAAH1w/sv2206uFXW0/s1600/IMG_1430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JrtZnHqS26U/T8KQ-7axVkI/AAAAAAAAH1w/sv2206uFXW0/s320/IMG_1430.JPG" width="320" /></a>Also, you can add all sorts of guns,&nbsp;backpacks, and other&nbsp;accessories&nbsp;to pimp out Stevie R here. &nbsp;The items from the Lego Toy Story Green Army Men are perfect, if only they weren't green!<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like: </span></b>That they didn't go with some sort of head accessory to give Cap his wings or "flesh out" the detail of his mask. &nbsp;At first he looked a little odd to me with his head stud bared for all the world to see. &nbsp;But in hand he looks great. &nbsp;And he can wear a soldier's helmet to us his level of kick assery! (Again, if it wasn't green...)<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hlIiDgp7XAM/T8KRXKTCcEI/AAAAAAAAH2g/UST1zUxyOAs/s1600/IMG_1436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hlIiDgp7XAM/T8KRXKTCcEI/AAAAAAAAH2g/UST1zUxyOAs/s640/IMG_1436.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Look Ma!, just like 3.75" Battlefield cap!"</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h3> <b><u><br /></u></b></h3><h3> <u><br /></u></h3><br /><h3> <b><u>RATINGS</u></b></h3><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Aesthetics:</span></b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_wZfkag_SVM/T8KRGzMY6jI/AAAAAAAAH2A/OsYmiBQxPaA/s1600/IMG_1433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_wZfkag_SVM/T8KRGzMY6jI/AAAAAAAAH2A/OsYmiBQxPaA/s320/IMG_1433.JPG" width="308" /></a></div><b><span style="color: blue;">Cap 9/10</span></b> - The torso is awesome, the shield is perfect and the cycle is just gravy! &nbsp;Only thing missing are his red boots and rest of the details that are missing on his legs. &nbsp;He would have been a perfect 10 if those were there. &nbsp;But let's face it, Lego used to do full details on the front of figures (torso and legs) &nbsp;and leave the back blank. &nbsp;Now they tend to do the front and back of the torsos and leave legs blank. &nbsp;I'd much rather have the latter. :) &nbsp;I do also like that Cap's a darker blue than in the movies because I don't think the lighter blue would work for him in minifig form--it might just have been a tad garish for my taste.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FAKkAptzm5w/T8KRCq3IS8I/AAAAAAAAH14/gg8PQGZWSic/s1600/IMG_1432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FAKkAptzm5w/T8KRCq3IS8I/AAAAAAAAH14/gg8PQGZWSic/s320/IMG_1432.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #f1c232;">Both Chitauri 7/10</span></b> - Still nice, but instead of the standard minifig body with tampos, I wonder if they could've use the parts from the sub-brands to create them. &nbsp;The "alien" figs from the Exoforce line come to mind. &nbsp;At the very least, I think different, slimmer/longer heads would've been closer to the Chitauri in the movie. Nevertheless, I'm really happy that there are two different aliens in this one set. &nbsp;Kudos to Lego for giving us some variety and on such a level that the figures are similar in design but yet completely different!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Y9gaEDkDdw/T8KRKQCnYtI/AAAAAAAAH2I/BjDTsV2K9BU/s1600/IMG_1434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Y9gaEDkDdw/T8KRKQCnYtI/AAAAAAAAH2I/BjDTsV2K9BU/s320/IMG_1434.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Poseability:&nbsp;9/10 </span></b>- Lego minifigs have their standard seven PoAs, so there's nothing there to scrutinize. &nbsp;In this case, accessories are a bonus, and Cap has the one thing that makes his Cap--his shield, of course! (Yup, it ain't because he's all heart. &nbsp;Don't&nbsp;believe&nbsp;everything you see on the big screen :P) &nbsp;Cap also have his bike, which adds to the pose value.<br /><br />But all of these would be rather moot if he didn't have a couple of baddies to bet up on, and a couple of Chitauri do just fine. &nbsp;throw in their sled and a missile launcher and you have the makings of a Lego stop-motion movie right out of the box.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i9a4IfqC9rA/T8KRSmsXTaI/AAAAAAAAH2Y/yEdl6ZH7WbQ/s1600/IMG_1444.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="356" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i9a4IfqC9rA/T8KRSmsXTaI/AAAAAAAAH2Y/yEdl6ZH7WbQ/s640/IMG_1444.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Fun:&nbsp;10/10</span></b> - It's lego!&nbsp; I already am tempted to improve the sled.&nbsp; Yes, grand plans!&nbsp; And those always fun, evne if they never come to be. ;)&nbsp; Maskless Cap has also already got me thinking of hair for a helmet-less Iron Man and a custom Bruce Banner.&nbsp; As far as the Chitauri go, flick missile features are always a blast! :)<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LUjecjfD-hs/T8KS-43L4II/AAAAAAAAH3A/EWAlxELKgH0/s1600/IMG_1435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LUjecjfD-hs/T8KS-43L4II/AAAAAAAAH3A/EWAlxELKgH0/s400/IMG_1435.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lego: Bringing a whole new meaning to "Avengers Assemble!"</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Value: 9/10</span></b> - Great quality, three minifigs, two vehicles, one small lump of cannon, all win.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Overall:&nbsp;9.25/10</span></b> - What can I say? &nbsp;Captain America does it once again! ;) &nbsp;He's the main reason everyone will grab this set. &nbsp;But the two different Chitauri are a great touch, so that you don't get doubles of figures if you don't want to just by&nbsp;buying a single set.&nbsp; But if you want to army-build, then it'll just make you want to grab a second box&nbsp;just&nbsp;so you can have four Chitauri for the Avengers to pummel.<br /><br />This set is close to being perfect, except that the Chitauri are hard to identify visually as a minifig. &nbsp;Still they grow on you and I'll prob pick up more to recreate a certain battle scene that's only probably the most <i>epic</i> superhero one ever on the silver screen. ;)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aabSYAYi88o/T8KRdOX2J7I/AAAAAAAAH2w/xGu_h1xDGOo/s1600/Go+Green.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aabSYAYi88o/T8KRdOX2J7I/AAAAAAAAH2w/xGu_h1xDGOo/s640/Go+Green.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/05/lego-avengers-captain-americas-avenging.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-874789746848317241.post-4346922048976327422Fri, 25 May 2012 13:07:00 +00002012-06-15T03:26:56.232+08:003.75-inchAssault ArmourCaptain AmericaIron ManMarvel UniverseThe AvengersThe Avengers: Stark Tech Assault Armour Captain America<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QrmvMtYN0vc/T769SP85N7I/AAAAAAAAHt0/VAEy3uad6lE/s1600/IMG_1362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QrmvMtYN0vc/T769SP85N7I/AAAAAAAAHt0/VAEy3uad6lE/s320/IMG_1362.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This review should be named "Captain America and His Toys Part II"! &nbsp;Why?<br /><br />Simply because the good captain is learning that having less super strength and less speed is just not good enough! &nbsp;Gone are the good ol' days where he was the strongest, the fastest and the most famous (and only) super hero. &nbsp;Sure, he's still a master of battlefield tactics and the bestest (eva!) leader there can be, but who can see that sorta thing? &nbsp;Being reanimated in this day and age where the most flashy (Iron Man), the most misunderstood (Hulk), and the most buff-n-blond (Thor) get all the attention hasn't been great for Cap. &nbsp;So what to do? &nbsp;Take a leaf from Tony Stark's book and get some toys of his own!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LcR5CBdkRFc/T769XACVqlI/AAAAAAAAHt8/FxZyUkz8Kjo/s1600/IMG_1363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LcR5CBdkRFc/T769XACVqlI/AAAAAAAAHt8/FxZyUkz8Kjo/s320/IMG_1363.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>But why "Part II" you ask? &nbsp;Because <u><i><a href="http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/04/avengers-captain-america-goliath.html">this</a></i></u> should've been part I. &nbsp;And the pics in this review will also give you a glimpse or two of Part III. ;)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jpit-Rfn-UY/T769nosmH0I/AAAAAAAAHuc/ntA-stum8zc/s1600/IMG_1370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jpit-Rfn-UY/T769nosmH0I/AAAAAAAAHuc/ntA-stum8zc/s320/IMG_1370.JPG" width="240" /></a>To get back on topic, the&nbsp;Stark Tech Assault Armor Captain America has been on my radar ever since I saw it on the shelves in stores. &nbsp;But the retail price of S$49.90 (US$39) is a <i>huge</i> put-off. &nbsp;So I was willing to wait till clearance.<br /><br />As luck would have it, the eagle-eyed Rangerlord, whose skill with a bow can only be outmatched by Hawkeye himself (or so he says), spotted this sweet, sweet piece of action in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, for 60% of the price! &nbsp;Needless to say, it was a score for sure! &nbsp;So was he worth it? &nbsp;Let's see!<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;"></span></b><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fiWEnl0cmD8/T769fVycAsI/AAAAAAAAHuM/zzJrzKloBP8/s1600/IMG_1367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fiWEnl0cmD8/T769fVycAsI/AAAAAAAAHuM/zzJrzKloBP8/s320/IMG_1367.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Just how massive this armour is! &nbsp;It's bulky, got guns sprouting everywhere, and it looks really sturdy and stable!<br /><br /><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> That despite appearances, it's not quite that hefty and really top heavy. &nbsp;Unless you've got your Captain America in inside it, the armour is likely to fall over if you try to have it standing in any other way that straight up. &nbsp;But this problem is also due in large part to the super loose leg joints. &nbsp;More on that later...<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_9qiDjIhRkI/T769jV4CaAI/AAAAAAAAHuU/ZCgzmLybTrw/s1600/IMG_1368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_9qiDjIhRkI/T769jV4CaAI/AAAAAAAAHuU/ZCgzmLybTrw/s200/IMG_1368.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Like:</b></span> Highly detailed sculpt. &nbsp;There's plates, panels, pistons, nuts and bolts everywhere. &nbsp;Not all of it is painted, but if you decided to customize this, all it would need to look awesome is a nice paint job to pick out the detail.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jf-GFL7LfhY/T76_QZqiqSI/AAAAAAAAHx0/n5kHWkKxbms/s1600/IMG_1401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jf-GFL7LfhY/T76_QZqiqSI/AAAAAAAAHx0/n5kHWkKxbms/s200/IMG_1401.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> Its interchangeability. &nbsp;All the guns have posts that fit into any of the holes in its body, so they're all interchangeable except for the forearm cannon, which has kibble that gets in the way of it fitting in the other holes. &nbsp;Also, there's a larger hole in the back of the figure that can't accommodate any of the other guns. &nbsp;It can, however, fit the cannon from the <u><a href="http://www.hasbro.com/marvel/avengers/en_US/shop/details.cfm?R=C95D582E-5056-900B-1007-019B69E1E975:en_US">Captain America Shield Assault 4x4</a></u> or the missile array from <u><a href="http://www.hasbro.com/shop/details.cfm?R=59BA0E81-5056-900B-10C0-555A689B8E9D:en_US">Off-Road Avenger</a></u>.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R-HxJqGDSKg/T76_oCQQrQI/AAAAAAAAHyc/jLJ6bcSvp6w/s1600/Cap+Armour+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R-HxJqGDSKg/T76_oCQQrQI/AAAAAAAAHyc/jLJ6bcSvp6w/s320/Cap+Armour+Art.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Like:</b></span> The number ball-jointed PoAs this guy has. &nbsp;However...<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oozUP-IRac0/T76-oc73peI/AAAAAAAAHwk/Im76hXpjMeY/s1600/IMG_1390.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oozUP-IRac0/T76-oc73peI/AAAAAAAAHwk/Im76hXpjMeY/s320/IMG_1390.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> Most of the PoAs are hindered in some way or another, and some of them quite badly too. &nbsp;The shoulders are hindered by kibble/sculpt detail of the chest and back, while the leg balls can barely swivel backwards because the armour's "butt" gets in the way. (You get maybe 30 degrees?) &nbsp;They move out about just over 45 degrees to the side before being blocked by the area around the joint itself, though the forward swivel movement is fine. &nbsp;That is until...<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1XQxnQvWdGA/T76-NVPVt6I/AAAAAAAAHvs/DfvJpJahUDM/s1600/IMG_1381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1XQxnQvWdGA/T76-NVPVt6I/AAAAAAAAHvs/DfvJpJahUDM/s200/IMG_1381.JPG" width="150" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rJTAfmFfYjA/T76-Rzi8ryI/AAAAAAAAHv0/ZS8OzVE_eos/s1600/IMG_1382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rJTAfmFfYjA/T76-Rzi8ryI/AAAAAAAAHv0/ZS8OzVE_eos/s200/IMG_1382.JPG" width="150" /></a><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> The ball-joints of the ankles are blocked! &nbsp;And when I say the ankles are hindered, boy, are they hindered! &nbsp;Despite having ball joints, the ankles can't rotate more than 45 degrees in the front because of the lower leg armour that comes down both sides of the feet. &nbsp;And while the pivot action is severely limited by the front of the same leg armour, the pointing action is completely blocked by a bar at the achilles at the base of the calf.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mA1ISQwXQzg/T76_T9AQyhI/AAAAAAAAHx8/6h3wCBMNcm0/s1600/IMG_1402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mA1ISQwXQzg/T76_T9AQyhI/AAAAAAAAHx8/6h3wCBMNcm0/s200/IMG_1402.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VKOBub-CJ9o/T76_W-q9AjI/AAAAAAAAHyE/WcPHWNqHjoY/s1600/IMG_1403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VKOBub-CJ9o/T76_W-q9AjI/AAAAAAAAHyE/WcPHWNqHjoY/s200/IMG_1403.JPG" width="146" /></a>The bar serves as a swivel for a rear foot armour flap, which apparently serves no purpose other than to cover up some of the back of the calf itself when flipped up. &nbsp;When flipped down, I have no idea what it's supposed to do. &nbsp;I thought I could remove the flap via the screws on the legs but there's an inner bar that the flap slips onto, and the only way to remove it would be to saw/cut though the plastic bar. &nbsp;I'm sorely tempted to do this, but getting in the y of that is...<br /><br /><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> Loose joints. &nbsp;It's so bad on my figure that&nbsp;the left ankle dangles, in which case freeing up the joint would be pointless because it wouldn't support the weight of the figure anyway. &nbsp; But that's not the only joint that's loose. &nbsp;In this case for my suit of armour, it's both the leg joints as well. &nbsp;And since legs support the weight of the figure in almost every pose, the armour falls over way too easily. &nbsp;Also, those loose ball-joints just pop out way too easily. &nbsp;Sigh.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CuOPf10qhFo/T7690SP2MzI/AAAAAAAAHu0/OQARPMCmEYI/s1600/IMG_1374.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CuOPf10qhFo/T7690SP2MzI/AAAAAAAAHu0/OQARPMCmEYI/s200/IMG_1374.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D9ylTe9NoHc/T76-A8_MUyI/AAAAAAAAHvU/eJ_njqkoR5o/s1600/IMG_1380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D9ylTe9NoHc/T76-A8_MUyI/AAAAAAAAHvU/eJ_njqkoR5o/s200/IMG_1380.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m0WC-pBKApY/T769-lilo3I/AAAAAAAAHvM/MqLtAHWRUIo/s1600/IMG_1377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m0WC-pBKApY/T769-lilo3I/AAAAAAAAHvM/MqLtAHWRUIo/s200/IMG_1377.JPG" width="143" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mruP9FUT638/T76-dJmMsMI/AAAAAAAAHwM/i57ifoDTxhQ/s1600/IMG_1387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mruP9FUT638/T76-dJmMsMI/AAAAAAAAHwM/i57ifoDTxhQ/s320/IMG_1387.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b><span style="color: red;">Dislike:</span></b> The weapons fall off easily, especially those missiles at the side of the legs. &nbsp;The forearm cannon is most secure, since it seems like the only one&nbsp;moulded&nbsp;to fit its slot. &nbsp;The problem is also that the weapons aren't flush with the slots their in, requiring somewhat long posts to hold them above the uneven but detailed surface of the armour.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cGevj65bxCM/T76-wY3E01I/AAAAAAAAHw0/aNlvZ_lhRA8/s1600/IMG_1393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cGevj65bxCM/T76-wY3E01I/AAAAAAAAHw0/aNlvZ_lhRA8/s200/IMG_1393.JPG" width="187" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Id2jT1Hf6X0/T769v51iXuI/AAAAAAAAHus/afaX24n2mhA/s1600/IMG_1373.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Id2jT1Hf6X0/T769v51iXuI/AAAAAAAAHus/afaX24n2mhA/s200/IMG_1373.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="166" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That the armour seems easily modifiable. &nbsp;There's lots of screws and I guess I can cut off certain parts/pieces that really bother me and sand down some that might need less of a mod.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> That any Captain America figure fits in it. &nbsp;Commander Rogers seems like the best, with the inside midsection clips going round his waist more securely than even better than Cap figure that comes with it.<br /><br />(Packed-in figure - left; <b>Below</b>:&nbsp;Ultimate Cap,&nbsp;left; Marvel U Cap, centre; Commander Rogers, right.)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PBAe9N11CFQ/T76_AO51FCI/AAAAAAAAHxU/8kMzBLt-OPs/s1600/IMG_1397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PBAe9N11CFQ/T76_AO51FCI/AAAAAAAAHxU/8kMzBLt-OPs/s200/IMG_1397.JPG" width="180" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AC04ZNAt-ME/T76_EXtDezI/AAAAAAAAHxc/hdx-P-9lF8c/s1600/IMG_1398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AC04ZNAt-ME/T76_EXtDezI/AAAAAAAAHxc/hdx-P-9lF8c/s200/IMG_1398.JPG" width="173" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ht8a2p71p30/T76_Idx_pBI/AAAAAAAAHxk/aGQ--gwlgJk/s1600/IMG_1399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ht8a2p71p30/T76_Idx_pBI/AAAAAAAAHxk/aGQ--gwlgJk/s200/IMG_1399.JPG" width="172" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_pkD4694U1I/T76-FFe13rI/AAAAAAAAHvc/qrpLXIen-Lg/s1600/IMG_1378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_pkD4694U1I/T76-FFe13rI/AAAAAAAAHvc/qrpLXIen-Lg/s320/IMG_1378.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hQmKfp4GNP4/T76-JFo2PjI/AAAAAAAAHvk/dvkhwlN7K6s/s1600/IMG_1379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hQmKfp4GNP4/T76-JFo2PjI/AAAAAAAAHvk/dvkhwlN7K6s/s320/IMG_1379.JPG" width="240" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Like:</span></b> The tampographed details. &nbsp;There's the star on the abdomen, the "Stark" on the right shin, the "warning" strips on the forearms and the "cockpit" &amp; arrow above the star. &nbsp;The best tampo though is the "Capt. Rogers AV02 on the left ribcage area. &nbsp;Also the paint on the figure is solid, with no spills, splashes or bleeds. :)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pf1N5UySqV4/T76-8IKAihI/AAAAAAAAHxM/b8B8U5f3o_4/s1600/IMG_1396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pf1N5UySqV4/T76-8IKAihI/AAAAAAAAHxM/b8B8U5f3o_4/s200/IMG_1396.JPG" width="150" /></a><u><b>RATINGS</b></u><br /><u><b><br /></b></u><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4HcxGZTd-p4/T76-VY47wDI/AAAAAAAAHv8/FWpbbQdxe90/s1600/IMG_1383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4HcxGZTd-p4/T76-VY47wDI/AAAAAAAAHv8/FWpbbQdxe90/s320/IMG_1383.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6" Cap shield! (Does not come with armour)</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Aesthetics: 9/10</span> - </b>Undoubtedly the best thing about the armour. &nbsp;It looks so teched up and kickass that it's hard to resist at first sight. &nbsp;Come to think of it, the armour looks very much like a cross between a Hulkbuster Armour, War Machine and of course, Captain America! &nbsp;It's got all the winning ingredients--big guns, lots of detail in the armour, and great paint with excellent tampographed details. <br /><b><br /></b><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DuYj5H2fvjg/T76-ZCX2tVI/AAAAAAAAHwE/ykcirH3KfOU/s1600/IMG_1386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DuYj5H2fvjg/T76-ZCX2tVI/AAAAAAAAHwE/ykcirH3KfOU/s320/IMG_1386.JPG" width="285" /></a><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Poseability: 6/10</span> -&nbsp;</b>Unfortunately, the articulation of this figure fails very badly. &nbsp;Everything that leg joints should not do are in this suit of armour--and that's not be bocked nor loose. &nbsp;You'd think that since it already has no knees that the legs and ankles would be freed up for some dynamic stances, but that's very much not the case. &nbsp;This is truly sad because it affects the overall playability of the figure. &nbsp;Between blocked PoAs and loose joints, I have to admit I had quite a frustrating time taking pictures.<br /><b><br /></b><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--sqsRKLwJYs/T76-0AXHlNI/AAAAAAAAHw8/MopG25p5BrQ/s1600/IMG_1394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="307" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--sqsRKLwJYs/T76-0AXHlNI/AAAAAAAAHw8/MopG25p5BrQ/s320/IMG_1394.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A second forearm cannon from STAA Iron Man!</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Fun: 6/10</span> -</b> I really wanted to have fun with this guy, but I have never had to pick up a bulky figure so many times in my life. &nbsp;The frustrating this is that all the right ingredients are there! &nbsp;if only someone at Hasbro would've said, "Ok, this is good but we can do better. &nbsp;And here's how without having to&nbsp;remould&nbsp;the entire suit of armour. &nbsp;you cut this piece here and remove the kibble there..."<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L3-QsUN9uEY/T769rid5FbI/AAAAAAAAHuk/Hdx1HxY7VI8/s1600/IMG_1372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L3-QsUN9uEY/T769rid5FbI/AAAAAAAAHuk/Hdx1HxY7VI8/s200/IMG_1372.JPG" width="180" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-or8K3dWzGV0/T76_Mn3qfaI/AAAAAAAAHxs/W-4MwPT2evE/s1600/IMG_1400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-or8K3dWzGV0/T76_Mn3qfaI/AAAAAAAAHxs/W-4MwPT2evE/s200/IMG_1400.JPG" width="200" /></a>Since this wasn't done, I guess it's left to us to mod our figures. &nbsp;But this never should have to be the case, since we pay good money for it!<br /><b>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</b> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; <br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7UneZ81qlBE/T76-sicxALI/AAAAAAAAHws/-4dAwPgY_dw/s1600/IMG_1392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7UneZ81qlBE/T76-sicxALI/AAAAAAAAHws/-4dAwPgY_dw/s320/IMG_1392.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The aforementioned 4x4 cannon</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Value: 6/10</span></b> - Ugh. &nbsp;I can't imagine paying the full S$49.90 price for this, especially now. &nbsp;Even though I got it for S$32, I still feel it's a little much for a toy I'll probably be taking the knife/screwdriver to.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LqRAyVwrrEM/T76_d8KBPPI/AAAAAAAAHyU/UkB7F-Hxv84/s1600/Cap+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LqRAyVwrrEM/T76_d8KBPPI/AAAAAAAAHyU/UkB7F-Hxv84/s200/Cap+Art.jpg" width="150" /></a>If the quality control weren't so poor, this would be very worth your money because let's face it, the armour does come with a good 5 whole weapons, has a good number of PoAs, and has great paint and detailing. &nbsp;Oh and it also does come with an action figure, limited as his joints are. &nbsp;(No chest or ankles.)<br /><br /><br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Overall: 6.75/10 - An above average toy with obvious flaw</b>s</span> -- To tell you the truth, I was expecting way better.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w6dG2YwoeQE/T76941QDd6I/AAAAAAAAHu8/FNZr4qOQdDs/s1600/IMG_1375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w6dG2YwoeQE/T76941QDd6I/AAAAAAAAHu8/FNZr4qOQdDs/s320/IMG_1375.JPG" width="320" /></a>From the poor range of movement to the looseness of joints, I can't help but feel this could've been one helluva toy. &nbsp;But I guess companies are cutting back and the 'Bro is no different. &nbsp;So what could've been a fantastic suit of armour turned out to just be good-looking toy with functional play value. &nbsp;I would have chucked this aside or sold it off but for the fact it looks so damn cool. &nbsp;As it is, it'll be part of my Cap display...for now.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B5z8t7NPzCM/T769bf-BxgI/AAAAAAAAHuE/gxYAQzm0TkM/s1600/IMG_1366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B5z8t7NPzCM/T769bf-BxgI/AAAAAAAAHuE/gxYAQzm0TkM/s640/IMG_1366.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qRltWyzM7LA/T76_bTrUCQI/AAAAAAAAHyM/Qg7FIWClyeI/s1600/IMG_1404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qRltWyzM7LA/T76_bTrUCQI/AAAAAAAAHyM/Qg7FIWClyeI/s640/IMG_1404.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />http://chasevariant.blogspot.com/2012/05/avengers-stark-tech-assault-armour.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SirDragonBane)8